In a broader effort to fight racism and discrimination, Schwerin is lending its voice to the International Weeks Against Racism, held from March 17 to March 30, 2025, under the theme “Protecting Human Dignity.” The initiative is part of a nationwide campaign to promote respect and dignity among various communities.
Among those participating actively in this initiative is Kevin Noé Franco Vásquez, a 20-year-old from San Salvador. He is currently pursuing his professional training in geriatric nursing at a reputable institution in Schwerin, having made the significant move from El Salvador to Germany in the fall of 2023. This transition was not merely geographical but also a cultural leap, filled with challenges and opportunities.
Kevin is an alum of the Colegio Don Bosco, a private high school that underscores the importance of helpfulness and peaceful coexistence. “The school placed a lot of value on being supportive,” Kevin reflects. Despite facing difficulties with German—especially with the pronunciation of certain nuances like ‘ach’ and ‘asch’—he persevered. His hard work paid off when he successfully passed the required language tests, enabling him to embark on his career.
Starting his training was a significant milestone for Kevin, but the beginning was anything but smooth. “I had already felt a bit scared to leave my family and go to another country. Everything was new: the streets, the people, the food, the weather—just everything. For example, I had never simply drunk water from the tap before. In El Salvador, we always bought bottled water,” he recalls. Despite initial homesickness, Kevin has gradually adjusted to his new environment, although he admits there are still moments of longing for home.
Beyond his studies, Kevin has also engaged in soccer, a passion he shares with his friends at the Berufsschule. Since February 2025, he has been playing in the midfield for the SV Plate team, showcasing his enthusiasm for the sport and further integrating into German society. In addition to enhancing his social life, soccer serves as a means of distraction from his worries.
However, life in Germany threw Kevin a curveball early in 2024 when he received distressing news from home: his grandmother had been diagnosed with breast cancer. “I was completely lost. For three days, I didn’t leave my room. I didn’t want to eat, see anyone, or talk to anyone. I wanted to fly home. It was a terrible situation—a situation I can't put into words. But I stayed, and fortunately, my grandmother is doing better now,” he shared. This experience has shaped his resilience and determination to succeed in both his personal and professional life.
Kevin cherishes simple yet heartfelt sentiments, with his favorite word being ‘Danke,’ or ‘Thank you,’ a gesture sparked from a television interview he once watched with German soccer player Joshua Kimmich. “I didn’t understand anything during the interview, but the last word uttered was ‘Danke.’ I remembered it instantly and taught my father to say it as well. He uses it now whenever we end our phone calls, as a way to connect despite distances,” Kevin said, highlighting the importance of communication within his family.
As part of the International Weeks Against Racism, an exhibit featuring stories from international coworkers, including Kevin's own, is showcased in the Schwerin city center. This exhibition provides a platform for individuals to share their journeys, experiences, hopes, and aspirations. Kevin is proud to be part of a movement that emphasizes the significance of mutual respect and understanding, particularly in a diverse society.
The motto of this year’s campaign reflects a growing need for awareness around issues of racism and discrimination, inviting communities to come together to build bridges and foster dialogue. The network for people has organized various activities aimed at encouraging participation and interaction, showcasing how diverse backgrounds enrich the community. Kevin's involvement not only exemplifies an individual’s journey but resonates with collective experiences, reminding everyone that human dignity must be protected and celebrated.
As he continues his training, Kevin aims to further his education in medicine, aspiring to become a doctor. His compassion for others, particularly elderly patients, drives this ambition, and he looks forward to making a meaningful difference in healthcare.
Kevin's story illustrates not just the personal journey of overcoming challenges as an international student in Germany, but also serves as an inspiring narrative within the broader context of combating racism and promoting dignity across communities. While his journey is ongoing, Kevin emerges as a symbol of hope and persistence, reinforcing the notion that kindness and respect can bridge even the widest cultural divides.
As these International Weeks Against Racism unfold, Kevin’s story and the stories of many others remind us of the vital importance of empathy and community solidarity in creating a respectful and inclusive environment for all.
