German Culture from the Inside: A SINGA Lunch & Learn
We all know the usual complaints about German culture — the bluntness, the rules, the small talk that never quite happens. This session doesn't stop there.
Join us for an honest, non-judgmental hour that looks at German culture from the inside out: not as a list of quirks to endure, but as a set of underlying logics that actually make sense once you understand the why — and know the how of navigating them.
When you register, we'll ask what you find hardest about German culture right now, and your answers will shape what we actually cover on the day. A few of you will be invited to bring your real situations into the room for shared, constructive problem-solving.
What you'll take away:
Two to three foundational cultural logics that explain common German behaviours — explored in depth, not skimmed
A clearer sense of what's personal versus what's simply cultural pattern — so you misread intent less often
At least one concrete approach to building authentic connection with German colleagues, neighbours, or partners
A reminder that "German culture" isn't one thing — it shifts by region and generation, and we name that up front
Who this is for:
SINGA community members — founders, community builders, program participants, and anyone navigating German cultural norms in their work, entrepreneurship, or daily life — who want practical, honest orientation rather than stereotypes.
Your facilitator:
Esther-Marie Merz is an international communications leader, intercultural trainer, and former journalist with more than 20 years of experience across Europe and Latin America. She has worked in corporate communications, public affairs, diplomacy, and international education, and is fluent in German, English, French, and Spanish. She's passionate about connecting people and enabling successful collaboration across cultures.
At SINGA, we build bridges to connect, not walls that separate. Come build a few with us.