Sudanese Roots, German Identity: Maab as a Model of Successful Youth Integration

Source: InfoMigrants
Maab Al-Nour Muawiya was born and raised in Germany, but she has never forgotten her Sudanese roots. She chose to study law to help promote justice and equality. As a social activist, she launched an initiative to introduce German society to Sudanese culture and raise awareness about the suffering of the Sudanese people amid the ongoing war. Maab’s story reflects conscious integration, active participation, and a strong desire for change.

Youth are among the most dynamic groups of migrants in Europe. They strive to build better futures through education, work, and meaningful community engagement. To achieve full integration, many take part in local institutions and youth organizations and contribute to public discussions on societal issues. Such engagement not only helps them develop new skills and experiences but also strengthens their sense of belonging and responsibility.

Integration, at its core, means enabling young people—whether migrants or citizens—to participate fully and effectively in the social, educational, professional, and cultural life of their communities, while maintaining their own identities.

Among the inspiring examples of successful integration is the story of Mab Al-Nour Muawiya, a 22-year-old Sudanese-German woman. Born in Germany, Mab spent part of her childhood between Sudan and Germany, giving her a deep understanding of two distinct cultures. She is studying law at a German university and is particularly passionate about refugee rights and social justice.

Contributing to Justice
In an interview with InfoMigrants, Maab said:
“I was born and raised in Germany, and I study law because I love and believe in this country’s legal system. I chose law to be able to provide legal assistance to others, as law and justice reflect the state’s policy. I want to be part of achieving justice.”

Maab describes herself as fully integrated into German society, with many German friends. She expresses admiration for Germany’s legal system, noting that it differs greatly from Sudan’s, and hopes to see Sudanese law evolve to ensure fairness and rights for all.

A study from the University of Bonn shows that ethnic diversity in classrooms enhances refugee youth integration by increasing opportunities for friendship and reducing peer rejection.

Volunteer Work and Community Initiatives
When war broke out in Sudan in 2023, Mab—like many young Sudanese—felt powerless in the face of the country’s deteriorating situation. However, she refused to remain passive. Together with a group of young people, she launched an Instagram initiative called “Sudan in Germany”, aimed at introducing German society to Sudanese culture and raising awareness about the war and its impact on the people.

Discussing the initiative’s goals, Maab explained:
“Our classmates didn’t even know there was a war in Sudan. Our aim was to raise awareness and collect donations, even if they were small at first. We started by selling cakes and donating the proceeds to the health sector.”

She added:
“We organized many activities and realized how important it was to educate Germans about our culture and the war in Sudan.”

Beyond raising awareness about the war, the initiative succeeded in highlighting Sudanese culture and addressing issues such as violence against women, rape, famine, and education challenges.

In her message to young people in Germany, Mab emphasizes the importance of community participation and supporting Sudan through education and humanitarian initiatives, such as helping local kitchens and charity food programs.

A study by the German Advisory Council on Integration and Migration (SVR) found that many young migrants in Germany, aged between 15 and 35, often feel isolated and excluded, which limits their community and political participation. The study recommends strengthening political education, expanding youth activities, and promoting inspiring role models—like Maab—to counter these challenges.