Award of Excellence 2013 "Ich bin ein Berliner - Young Urban Life in Germany's Capital"

Overview

The video follows four teenagers from the United States and Canada on a tour of Berlin led by young local guides Dennis and Ema through V Berlin, a nonprofit that organizes tours for young people.

Highlights

• Berlin beyond the landmarks: The guides introduce a multicultural side of the city, where communities, food, languages, and religions mix. They describe how much Berlin has changed since reunification and the fall of the Berlin Wall.
• Everyday life in Kreuzberg: At a busy international market, the visitors see residents shopping for groceries and learn about Turkish, Arabic, and other influences in the neighborhood. The guides point out cafés, bars, a synagogue, and mosques, and note that the area’s growing popularity is driving up rents.
• Youth culture: Local teenagers describe ordinary ways they spend time with friends, such as going to movies or getting something to eat. The visitors also hear about places where young people can hang out, take dance classes, play volleyball, or box.
• A mosque visit: The group learns about the mosque’s features, Islamic religion, and architecture. One guide also provides historical context about the site.
• YAAM and the East Side Gallery: The tour visits YAAM, a lively venue and gathering place, and the East Side Gallery, where murals reflect Berlin’s divided past and reunification. The guide highlights the famous “Brotherly Kiss” mural and a painting of a Trabant breaking through the Wall.
• Visitors’ reflections: The Canadian and American teens say they were struck by Berlin’s diversity and its range of cultures, religions, and foods. They recommend YAAM and the mosque as places to experience the city.

Notable Locations and People

V Berlin; Kreuzberg and its market; YAAM; a mosque; the East Side Gallery; guides Dennis and Ema; and visiting teenagers from the United States and Canada.

Historical Imagery and Objects

The Berlin Wall, the “Brotherly Kiss” mural, a Trabant, and East Berlin visa stamps and currency.