Why we also recruit future apprentices in Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire

Future talent can be found anywhere in the world. That is why, through Why not Logistics, we also reach out to young people in Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire. Logistics connects countries, people and markets. For us, taking an international approach to recruiting future apprentices is a natural part of that.

What matters is each person’s individual profile: what skills, experience and motivation do they bring to an apprenticeship in Germany?

What we look for when selecting applicants

An apprenticeship in logistics requires reliability, a willingness to learn, a sense of responsibility, teamwork and organisational skills. An interest in logistics operations and a commitment to continued development are equally important. These criteria apply to all applicants, regardless of their background.

During our selection processes in West Africa, we meet young people who are giving serious thought to their professional future and are interested in an apprenticeship in Germany. Some already have work experience, while others are at the beginning of their careers. What they share is a personal decision to pursue this path and prepare for its demands.

Learning German as a key part of preparation

A good command of German is essential for learning in the workplace, attending vocational college and communicating in everyday life. A willingness to learn the language is therefore a central part of our selection and preparation process.

Among our applicants from Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire, we see a strong interest in German and a willingness to invest time and energy in learning it. Many start before arriving in Germany and work towards the required language level.

We recognise this as a personal achievement: learning a new language while preparing for an apprenticeship and life in another country takes perseverance and commitment.

Diversity as an asset in international logistics

Many of our international applicants already have experience of several languages and different cultural contexts. These individual skills can support communication within an international business.

We do not associate multilingualism or intercultural competence with any particular background. Intercultural competence develops through experience, encounters and a willingness to learn from one another.

Why Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire?

In both countries, we reach young people who are interested in building a professional future in Germany and are willing to prepare for the language and vocational requirements. We assess every application individually against clear selection criteria.

For us, international recruitment means broadening the pool of suitable applicants and giving people the opportunity to contribute their skills and motivation.

We want to continue expanding our network and include further countries in the future. We will share updates about these developments and new opportunities through our channels.

The journey to Germany is a shared responsibility

Our responsibility does not end with selection. A new working environment, a new language, a different education system and unfamiliar daily routines all bring significant changes.

That is why we support our future apprentices before and after their arrival. This includes language preparation, help with practical arrangements and integration into the workplace and team. At the same time, we expect them to show initiative and take responsibility for their own apprenticeship journey.

Opportunities for young people and businesses

International recruitment brings together two interests: young people gain access to career opportunities, and businesses can reach additional suitable applicants. Behind every application is a person with their own skills, experience, expectations and goals.

Our experience with applicants from Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire shows us the value of this international outlook. Logistics connects people across borders. Our recruitment can do the same.

This article was created with the assistance of AI, based on content provided by WNL, and reviewed and approved by WNL.