From the refugee to the pizza pioneer: Leo Azodo inspires Schwäbisch Gmünd

From the refugee to the pizza pioneer: Leo Azodo inspires Schwäbisch Gmünd

Schwäbisch Gmünd, Deutschland - Today, on June 20, 2025, the World Refugee Day meets an important topic: the integration of refugees in Germany. According to SWR Life in Germany. More than 120 million people worldwide are on the run, and integration into the labor market is a major challenge for many.

How do refugees manage to gain a foothold in their new home? An inspiring example is Leo Azodo, a 39-year-old Nigerian who came to Germany 13 years ago. In Schwäbisch Gmünd, he built up a new life and took over the restaurant in the Bettringen outdoor pool, where he sells pizza, ice cream and drinks. Azodo, a trained industrial mechanic, found a new professional perspective in the catering trade. His story is not only proof of successful integration, but also for the opportunities that exist despite hurdles.

A look at the integration

The labor market integration of refugees has been the subject of many discussions in recent years. Between 2013 and 2016, around 1.5 million people in Germany submitted an asylum application, which led to a variety of challenges, especially as far as accommodation and access to the labor market. However, institutional changes were made to accelerate this integration, according to the Federal Center for Political Education .

The legal conditions for labor market access have been improved. People with asylum authorization or recognized refugee status can work without restrictions. Those who remain temporarily in Germany can also enter the labor market under certain conditions. Asylum seekers also have the option of finding work before deciding on their asylum application, provided that the responsible immigration office agrees, as on the website of the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs

success stories and challenges

Leo Azodo is a living example of the successes that are possible when refugees get the chance to integrate. In the outdoor pool he heads a team of seven people and made a good name with his regular guests. It is particularly important to him to learn the German language and use the training opportunities. Mayor Richard Arnold praises Azodo's commitment and sees his career a success story that should inspire other refugees.

In the catering trade, Azodo found a niche that not only secures him, but also gives him the opportunity to develop further. He plans to offer Nigerian cuisine, with dishes such as cooking bananas and traditional rice - a delicious enrichment for the region. His positive experiences encourage many other refugees to go their way too.

However, the integration of refugees remains a challenge. Although many bring professional qualifications from their country of origin, the recognition of these degrees is often the key to access to the German labor market. However, a positive development is recognizable and the legal framework is constantly adapted to facilitate integration.

Leo Azodo has already passed the naturalization test and could soon gain German citizenship. His example shows that with commitment and support, the path to integration is not only possible, but also successful. It is up to all of us to give newcomers an opportunity and appreciate the diversity that they bring to our community.