Sonia Veselova (25 Jahre)

Where do you work?

I am a Software Engineer at Delivery Hero in Berlin. Delivery Hero is a global company with a broad portfolio of delivery platforms – including foodpanda, foodora and Glovo. We are active in around 70 countries and our headquarters are in Berlin. Customers can use our apps and web applications to have groceries, flowers, coffee and much more delivered directly to their doors.

My team is currently working on an exciting AI project for image generation. Our aim: to harness artificial intelligence for the automatic optimization of low-quality photos of food and beverages. The project is highly dynamic and constantly evolving – that's what I love about my job.

At the same time, I am studying software engineering at 42Berlin, a coding school with a strong practical focus. Originally I studied bioinformatics, but my first job brought me into contact with other areas of programming – such as website creation. I fell for it immediately and knew: this is what I want to do. I wanted to go deeper.

It was a coincidence that I learned about 42Berlin – and was immediately fascinated by the innovative concept. The school is ideal for anyone looking for an alternative educational pathway. There are no traditional teachers; learning takes place in teams. The underlying idea at all times is to identify collaborative solutions in real projects. This method is highly practical and very much geared towards later professional life. And I had no doubts after the trial month: This one is for me. Now I'm about to graduate – and am very happy with my decision.

What made you choose Berlin?

I moved to Berlin in February 2022, shortly after Russia attacked Ukraine. Originally I come from Moscow – but remaining there was not an option for me. I packed my things and set off in less than two days. Fortunately, I already had a tourist visa and was able to travel directly to Germany.

There is one thing I should admit: I've always wanted to live in Berlin. I first visited Berlin at the age of 17 – and immediately fell in love with the city. Berlin felt like my second home. My partner was already living here, so the move was already planned.

What do you love about Berlin?

For me, Berlin means freedom – also in a political sense. I identify as a member of the queer community and it is important to me that I am able to live openly as I am and want to be. This is not possible in Russia. But it’s different in Berlin: the city is multicultural, tolerant and non-judgmental. If you are looking for a place that epitomizes diversity – look no further than Berlin.

I also love the city's contrasts. Berlin is simply magical – with all its parks, architecture and cultural life. People here can seem a little rough around the edges at first, but they are actually extremely open. The city is international – you meet people from all over the world. That's what makes it so special for me.

Who or what helped you to settle in when you first arrived in Berlin?

I already knew Berlin well, having visited regularly over the years. Many of my friends live here – and so does my partner. All of these things made it easier for me to settle here. I had a supportive environment and already knew my way around the city.

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

If you arrive in summer, be sure to visit the open-air cinemas – for example in Volkspark Friedrichshain. Buying a daylight lamp is a good idea if you move to Berlin in winter. The darker months can be challenging – but don't worry, Berlin summers make up for the gloom. People here feed off this summer energy all year round. My most important tip: don't overthink, just come! Berlin will welcome you with open arms.