Podcast: Change of Perspective

Ten years ago, Josi took part in the weltwärts programme. Today she works at Brückenwind – where, together with her colleagues from the organisation, she takes a critical look at voluntary service and voluntary work in development cooperation or with refugees. In their podcast “Change of Perspectives”, they draw attention to the power dynamics and inequalities that exist within this work. Her weltwärts voluntary service has certainly played a part in her taking this critical stance today. 

The podcast aims to move away from a one-sided European perspective and to listen to those whose voices are often overlooked or silenced. Spanning two series and a total of 14 episodes, the podcast explores power dynamics in international contexts such as post-colonial continuities, white saviourism and paternalism. The podcast also offers alternatives of how we can act in solidarity in our political work.

How can social engagement move beyond charity? What narratives shape our understanding of resistance and responsibility? Whose voices are centered – and whose are left out?

The experts who share their experiences are not simply interview guests; they actively shape the process. They decide which stories are told, what matters most, and how they want to be represented. The result is a series of conversations that are honest and personal. Each speaker introduces a specific perspective on a specific context, from which listeners can learn and reflect for their own engagement.

So the people themselves and their memories, doubts, hopes, and perspectives are in the focus of the podcast. In doing so, complex social and political issues become not only understandable, but deeply tangible.

Mahasin Dahab, co-founder of the feminist movement Midanik, opens the second series by exploring how colonialism continues to shape Sudan today and draws on her own experience to describe what self-organised revolutionary movements – particularly feminist resistance – look like.

When Najla Mohamed-Lamin, a Sahrawi human rights activist, talks in the latest episode about radical bravery and responsibility in everyday life, Josi certainly feels inspired to get more involved – even if only in small ways. Josi can also be heard in one episode herself, in which she talks about her process of reflection on her own engagement.

“Change of Perspective” invites listeners to question dominant narratives, reflect on their own position within societal power structures, and take steps from awareness to action – a path that Josi is keen to follow together with other former weltwärts volunteers.

It is time to listen, learn, and rethink solidarity.