Start with a Friend Köln

In the page's words:

Start with a Friend e.V. is a nationwide organization based in Cologne that works to promote friendships between people with and without immigration experience.

We have been based in Cologne since 2016 and specialize in creating sustainable encounters that take place on an equal footing. The aim is to promote exchange and understanding between different cultures and to develop a sense of community.

Goals and activities

Main goals:

• Welcome: We welcome all (new) Cologne residents and are happy to include you in our networks.
• Long-term friendships: We create uncomplicated and personal friendships at eye level.
• Promoting exchange: We invite dialog and promote mutual understanding.

Activities:

• Tandem programs: People with and without a history of immigration are brought together in 1:1 tandems to facilitate personal encounters.
• Community events: Regular events such as evening walks, concerts and get-togethers offer opportunities for exchange and networking.

Community and commitment

The Start with a Friend community in Cologne has over 3,000 members and is part of a nationwide network that is active in more than 25 cities. We attach great importance to the involvement of members who contribute creative ideas for events.

Benefits of membership:

• Access to a broad network of people.
• Shaping our immigration society
• Opportunity to participate in a wide range of events.

Contact and participation

Interested parties can register via the Start with a Friend website or take part in information evenings to find out more about us and find suitable tandem partners. The meetings take place regularly.

Start with a Friend e.V. offers a valuable platform for intercultural exchange and the creation of friendships that transcend cultural boundaries.

You can find more information here:

• https://www.wiku-koeln.de/mitmachen/koelnweit/start-with-a-friend-ev/
• https://www.start-with-a-friend.de
• https://www.start-with-a-friend.de/standorte/
• https://www.stadt-koeln.de/artikel/70168/index.html
• https://koeln.mitvergnuegen.com/tipps/freundschaft-mit-einem-gefluechteten-start-with-a-friend