With his Own Computer Game to Success

When 24-year-old Othman came to StartHope@Home, he brought more than just an idea with him: He came with unbridled determination, a lot of creativity and the desire to build a new life for himself in Iraq. His original plan was to open a restaurant in Baghdad, Iraq. However, over the course of the two-month coaching course, his idea developed in a completely new direction - inspired by his long-standing passion for video games and creative design.

Around a year later, he succeeded in entering the Arab market with his first computer game.

Othman came to Germany at the age of 14 and most recently lived in Bavaria. There he attended language courses and trained as a chef. At the beginning of 2024, he finally decided to return to Iraq voluntarily due to a lack of career prospects.

During the program, Othman went through various modules, including idea generation, mindset & reflection, product development, marketing & social media, media skills and financial planning. The intensive exploration of his interests and strengths helped him to rethink his original business idea - which led to the desire to develop his own computer game.

Othman independently learned complex technical skills such as world-building, visual effects and 3D modeling. Through coaching, he was also able to build up business skills that helped him to market the game and develop a sustainable business structure. Together with three friends, Othman finally put this ambitious project into practice and has already been able to present the game several times.

The fact that his employment contract in Germany was not extended and his stay was therefore not secured did not mean the end for Othman. He seized the opportunity to turn his passion into a career and gain a foothold in the Arab gaming scene.

We are proud of Othman and wish him all the best for the future. His story shows how a challenge can turn into a real success story.