Hilaire

If Hilaire’s poor grades hadn’t forced him to leave grammar school in Yaoundé, he would probably never have met Zebaze. But he went to live with his uncle on Bertoua and went to grammar school there instead. His grades improved. Then one day, in 1995, he met a fellow student, Zebaze. At first, it was no more than a minor flirtation for both of them. But love blossomed – a love they were forced to keep secret for a very long time. The young man had no money for an expensive dowry and couldn’t afford to marry.

After finishing school, Hilaire returned to Yaoundé to start his college training as a postal worker. The relationship continued, despite the distance between them – 250 km. Even when Zebaze’s parents sent their daughter to study in Germany, the couple stayed in contact, but now, the distance was even greater – a whole 5400 km. It was a full 15 years after they first met at school until the couple’s wish was fulfilled and they were able to marry. Hilaire is now 32 years old – and is keen to join his wife in Germany as soon as possible.

He has positive memories of his German class. He particularly liked the relaxed atmosphere. He is full of praise for the course: the concise and well-structured content, and the high quality of the teaching. With his teacher’s help – and Zebaze’s – he was able to balance his job and his coursework. He enjoyed learning and passed the exam with ease.

Germany is a progressive and well-organised country, says Hilaire. That’s something he appreciates. He hopes to make a success of his life in Germany. At present, he is still working as a liquor seller, but in Germany, his aim is to find a job as a postal worker. That would be the fulfilment of his dream.