Guest Spotlight: What Brings Us to Bonn? Stories of unity, culture & meaningful connections

Guest Spotlight: What Brings Us to Bonn? Stories of unity, culture & meaningful connections.

Guest Spotlight: Silvia Hesse on 60+ Years of Malawian Friendship
Chairwoman, Friends of Malawi & Hannover–Blantyre Sister City Association

We caught up with Silvia Hesse, a devoted champion of the Malawi–German friendship, whose work spans over six decades. Her story is proof that passion, purpose, and cultural connection can last a lifetime.

Q: What motivates your long-standing connection with Malawi?
Silvia: “The relationship, the love I have for Malawi! It is as old as Malawi itself. It all started 60 years ago with the Friends Circle, founded by Dr. Lore Henkel. Though it focused on Central and East Africa, my heart was drawn to Malawi. Eventually, I left and started working directly with Malawians in the south. Late Dr. Kamuzu Banda suggested the Makanjira partnership — mostly educational — and later, the Hannover–Blantyre sister city relationship was formalised. Things took off in 2011 when the EU supported our education projects under the Millennium Development Goals. That’s when real progress began with Friends of Malawi.”

Q: How does the theme ‘Living Together in Diversity’ speak to your work?
Silvia: “This theme brings back special memories. I first met artists like Thom Chibambo, Agorosso, and Mankhamba during cultural performances in Berlin — those connections helped shape our project focus in Blantyre, especially in Lizulu, emphasising fair trade and education. Diversity is not just a theme for me — it’s the heartbeat of the work I do. We learn from each other, celebrate our differences, and build something beautiful together.”

Q: Why should people attend the celebration?
Silvia: “Because you never know who you might meet — it could change your life or the perspective of it entirely. These gatherings spark friendships, collaborations, and mutual understanding, especially at a time when the world desperately needs peace. Come with open arms — the magic happens in the mingling!”

Pro tip: Bring a friend — or meet one there.

Guest Spotlight: Mr. Jürgen Borsch on Why Malawi Still Feels Like Home
Board Member, Malawi-German Association & Former German Ambassador to Malawi

A long-time friend of Malawi, Mr. Jürgen Borsch reflects on the enduring bond he shares with “the Warm Heart of Africa.”

Q: What brings you to this year’s celebration?
Mr. Borsch: “Malawi has never left my heart. It’s a country that teaches you the value of peace and kindness. Being invited to celebrate its independence here in Germany, with such a vibrant diaspora, is an honour — and a homecoming.”

Q: What does ‘Living Together in Diversity’ mean to you?
Mr. Borsch: “It captures the soul of Malawi — and the strength of our global community. I witnessed the warmth of Malawians first-hand. That same spirit is needed here in Germany. When we embrace cultural diversity, we lay the foundation for meaningful cooperation and peace, particularly important at a time when war headlines dominate the news.”

Q: Any message for Malawians in Germany?
Mr. Borsch: “Carry the spirit of Malawi with pride — you are living ambassadors of unity, hospitality, and resilience.”

Pro tip: Bring your stories, your culture, and your smile. They matter.

🎤 Diaspora Voices: How Are You Looking Forward to the Event?
As we gear up for Malawi’s 61st Independence Day in Bonn, we asked the diaspora community what excites them most. Their answers are heartwarming — and a little contagious:

“I can’t wait to hear Malawi music playing live – it takes me home instantly.”
— Susan Mlenga, Cologne

“It’s all about unity and culture. I’m bringing my child so they can feel proud of where they come from.”
— Heather Maseko-Msyale, Bonn

“Sharing food, dancing, and speaking Chichewa… It’s healing. This event means the world to me.”
— Beatrice, Munich

“For us in the Zambian diaspora, joining Malawi’s celebration feels like coming home. Our history is deeply intertwined, and gatherings like these help keep our shared bonds and solidarity alive.” — Mr Enock Chota, Chairman & President of Zambia Diaspora in Germany

“It’s the international atmosphere for me. I always look forward to connecting with diverse people and hopefully collaborating on meaningful projects that make our world socially better.”— Mada D. Nkhoma, Berlin

Silvia (left) & Mr. Borsch (right)

🔗 What are YOU most excited about?
Tag us on Facebook: @Umodzi wa a Malawi in Germany or  LinkedIn
Or simply use #Malawi61Bonn to share your thoughts!