Role Models – Faces of Integration: Rowan

Role Models in NRW – Faces of Integration: Rowan Merkur e.V., a non-profit NGO based in Germany, is implementing the media and educational project “Role Models in NRW – Faces of Integration”, a documentary portrait series highlighting successful integration journeys across North Rhine-Westphalia. The aim of the project is to make real, personal, and often overlooked stories of migration visible — beyond headlines, stereotypes, and simplified public debates. This project is not about idealizing migration. It is about presenting a human, authentic, and realistic picture of integration, told first-hand by the people who have experienced it. Between August and December 2025, ten individuals with migration, refugee, and international backgrounds were accompanied and portrayed through documentary films. Each participant is featured in a dedicated profile, sharing their personal story, challenges, achievements, and experiences of building a life in Germany. Public discussions about migration are often dominated by problems, deficits, and conflicts. This project deliberately offers a different perspective. Anyone who has learned a new language, found employment, taken responsibility, contributed to their community, or successfully navigated everyday life in a new country can be a role model — even if these achievements often remain largely invisible. “Role Models in NRW” shines a light on these everyday stories of integration, resilience, and participation. At the same time, the project highlights an important reality: the overwhelming majority of immigrants and refugees seek to contribute, engage, and become active members of society. Diversity is not presented as a problem, but as a source of strength, enrichment, and opportunity. www.vorbildernrw.de www.merkur-ev.de