Sigrid Arteaga

Where do you work?

 I work at Novalis Medienhaus in Berlin, where I lead special projects like Plus Forty Nine and Diplo.Berlin, which are focused on supporting internationals and migrants in Germany through media, storytelling, and practical tools. 

Why did you choose Berlin? 

Berlin felt like the right place because of its openness and diversity. It’s a city where so many cultures meet, and that makes it incredibly dynamic. For someone who works in media and with international communities, Berlin is the perfect hub. But to be honest, Berlin chose me. Like many of us, I thought I’d stay just one or two years — and suddenly it’s been more than a decade. This city never stops teaching you. It forces you to reflect on yourself and, above all, to not take things personally. Living in Berlin and with Germans is like a crash course in exactly that. 

What do you love about Berlin? 

I love that Berlin is full of contrasts – it can be hectic and loud, but also calm and green. It gives people the freedom to reinvent themselves, and there’s a tolerance here that makes you feel you can truly be who you are. I love the freedom to walk without fear, to sleep in all day, or to dance the whole night away — Berlin allows all of it. 

What were some of the challenges you had to overcome, and how did you manage to do so? 

At the beginning, even everyday things like shopping at Ikea or figuring out how the food tastes were challenges. Learning when to buy what, and understanding that you must go out when the sun is shining, or head to a lake when it’s warm — those were lessons too. The lack of sunshine can be tough; depression is a reality for many of us who come from sunnier places. Making friends and dating were also challenges. To this day, I still don’t fully understand how Germans date. And of course: patience. You really have to be patient with yourself. 

Who or what helped you settle in Berlin? 

What helped me most was finding people I could connect with — both Germans and other internationals. In the beginning, Facebook groups gave me a way to meet people who understood what I was going through. Over time, I found amazing friends who have become my rock — a mix of Germans, Mexicans, and Colombians. Community projects, local media, and expat networks also played a big role in helping me feel at home. 

What advice would you have for someone who is new to Berlin?

Be patient with yourself and with the system — things take time here, especially bureaucracy. Don’t isolate yourself; connect early with communities, whether through language courses, cultural events, or interest groups. Making friends can feel like a full-time job, and you’ll meet wonderful people but also others who aren’t in the same mental space as you — and that’s okay. Find tools that keep your head above water: happy playlists, inspiring pictures, small rituals that remind you of who you are. Learn German, even if it’s slow progress. And remember: Germans may seem closed at first, but once they open up, they’re truly amazing.