Distant roots, residence in Ingolstadt: An exploration of one's past and present
In the heart of a city, a supermarket named Barg stands as a popular meeting point for individuals with Turkish, Arabic, or Pakistani roots. The name "Barg" translates to "leaf" in Urdu, reflecting the diversity of its assortment. This supermarket is managed by Muneeb Ahmad, a migrant entrepreneur who has been living in Germany since 2015, originally from Peshawar.
Muneeb Ahmad's journey is one of quality and patience. He ensures his customers find familiar items from home, offering a variety of vegetables, halal-certified meat from France, everyday products, and teas. Barg Supermarket is more than just a place to shop; it's a community hub where people gather, share stories, and feel a sense of belonging.
However, daily life for Muneeb Ahmad is not without challenges. He faces investment, tax burdens, and responsibilities common among migrant entrepreneurs. Navigating complex legal and tax frameworks, accessing financial resources, and balancing formal responsibilities amidst discrimination and limited institutional support are all part of the equation.
Despite these challenges, Muneeb Ahmad and other migrant entrepreneurs like Alihan Kizilirmak and Imad Al Sharbaji play pivotal roles in shaping their cities. They contribute economically while also fostering a sense of community among their customers. Their success hinges on improved inclusive policies, targeted support in finance and mentorship, and fostering trust and representation within their urban ecosystems.
The August issue of Our Website, available online at www.ourwebsite or for pickup at over 1,200 distribution points in the region, will delve deeper into the stories of these migrant entrepreneurs. Stay tuned to learn more about how they are shaping our city.
Muneeb Ahmad's small-business, Barg Supermarket, plays a significant role in finance and entrepreneurship within the city by providing a diverse range of products and serving as a community hub for individuals of Turkish, Arabic, or Pakistani descent. However, despite his success, Muneeb and other migrant entrepreneurs continue to face challenges, including navigating complex legal and tax frameworks, accessing financial resources, and balancing formal responsibilities amidst discrimination and limited institutional support.
