Refat Alsakka

From Homs to Germany: Charting My Odyssey Through Passion, Perseverance, and Purpose

In the ancient streets of Homs, Syria, where history whispered tales of old, my early chapters were penned. As a child, the echoing laughter of friends and the thrill of football filled my days. However, the shadow of war soon clouded these innocent joys, compelling me to seek refuge far from home.

In 2015, I found myself on the shores of Germany, a land vast in its contrasts to Homs. Not only was I grappling with the memories of a war-torn homeland, but I was also confronted with the challenges of understanding a new language, culture, and way of life. It was overwhelming, but the spirit that had seen me through the trials of war was not to be easily daunted.

Amidst these transitions, two pillars became my solace: the unwavering support of my newfound German friends and the universal language of football. On the football fields of Germany, I rekindled my passion for the sport, joining teams and forging bonds that transcended language and culture. Through these experiences, I found myself fusing my Arabic roots with German ethos, creating a unique identity that bridged two worlds.

Parallel to my adventures on the football pitch, another passion was taking root. A random YouTube video introduced me to the world of coding, and what started as curiosity soon blossomed into a full-fledged profession. The challenges of integrating into a new country were mirrored by the complexities of the digital realm. But with guidance from distant mentors and experiences with various companies, I navigated both with determination and tenacity.

Today, as I look to the future, I dream of further honing my skills in the tech world, with an emphasis on security and devops. Yet, as I chase these aspirations, the memories of Homs, the challenges of war, and the journey of rebuilding in Germany remain etched in my heart.

My narrative is not just a tale of transition from Syria to Germany; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s resilience, the transformative power of passion, and the enduring hope that drives us forward, even in the face of overwhelming odds.