The world of work is changing, and finding skilled workers has become increasingly challenging.
One initiative that provides a compelling answer to this is Why Not Logistics—a programme that recruits international apprentices for vocational careers in Germany. It focuses particularly on technical and logistics professions, guiding young people from countries such as Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and the Democratic Republic of Congo on their path to a professional future in Germany.
What’s Behind the Project?
“Why Not Logistics” is much more than just a placement platform. It’s a comprehensive support system for both companies and applicants. From the initial online aptitude test and structured interviews in the candidates’ home countries, to extensive language preparation in cooperation with the Goethe-Institut, visa arrangements, health checks, and cultural onboarding in Germany—everything is organised from a single source.
Even after the apprenticeship begins, the project team stays closely involved, maintaining regular check-ins with both the apprentices and their employers.
The results are impressive: with a success rate of 94%, nearly all apprentices start their training highly motivated and go on to complete it successfully—a clear testament to the programme’s effectiveness.
Juli.O welcomes two new apprentices in logistics
We are delighted that, through this initiative, Juli.O has welcomed two new apprentices who began their training as professional drivers on August 1, 2025.
This milestone was the result of a long and thorough process. Out of around 1,700 applications from several West African countries, 40 candidates were selected through a multi-stage selection process to participate in a preparatory language course. Of these, 35 successfully reached the required B1 language level—a remarkable achievement, especially considering they only began learning German in January.
Now, these 35 motivated young people have arrived in Germany—full of hope, energy, and curiosity about what awaits them.
Onboarding in Himmelkron: Building cultural bridges
To personally welcome the new apprentices, Uwe Holz from Juli.O as well as Sophia Frank and Jacqueline Yaramis from OQEMA GmbH travelled to the tranquil town of Himmelkron near Bayreuth, where the central onboarding event took place.
The event began with an intercultural training session led by two speakers from Burkina Faso who have lived in Germany for several years. Their experiences provided an authentic and practical perspective—both from the viewpoint of newcomers and from the perspective of integration. Th onboarding included key topics such as communication styles, hierarchy and respect, time perception and everyday life in Germany.
The training was not only informative but also invaluable for trainers and company representatives. It helped them respond sensitively and supportively to cultural differences—and prevent misunderstandings before they even arise.
A day of pride, connection and celebration
The onboarding event in Himmelkron was filled with energy and anticipation. Alongside the apprentices and their mentors, representatives from companies, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees and the European Language School took part. Each of the 35 apprentices confidently introduced themselves in German, expressing gratitude and excitement for their new start in Germany.
The day highlighted cultural pride and mutual respect – from the singing of national anthems to short presentations about the apprentices’ home countries, showcasing traditions, music and symbols such as the Fulani hat (“Ngul”). Juli.O and other companies also introduced themselves, followed by informal networking that helped build trust and understanding.
The event concluded with a shared dinner that turned into a joyful celebration, complete with singing, laughter and dancing – a powerful moment of togetherness marking the beginning of a shared journey.
Conclusion: A project with real impact
The Why Not Logistics project is a shining example of how intercultural collaboration, social responsibility, and workforce development can go hand in hand.
We are proud to be part of this inspiring initiative—and proud to welcome two courageous, motivated young people to Juli.O, where they will begin their professional journey.
Welcome to the #OQEMAfamily—we wish you every success and look forward to growing together on this exciting path!