Mein erstes Mal

It’s 2023 and I’m standing on a stage. I’ve never stood on a proper stage before.

A soft, fluffy purple carpet stretches across the floor where many people are sitting cross-legged. The room is packed. Whispers and laughter blend into a murmuring buzz. Outside, where Prada, Gucci and Chanel reside, it’s cold.

I feel happy.

At the same time, I’m dying

inside

from nerves.

Wobbly knees, shaking hands, cold sweat.

Why have I put myself in this situation?

No matter, I must see it through.

After all, I’ve got dressed up especially for the occasion.

The murmuring falls silent.

Stillness now fills the room.

Kind eyes are fixed upon me.

What follows is a moment of

vulnerability,

honesty,

and a touch of freedom.

Right in the middle of Maximilian Straße.

Where the rich and beautiful spend their time,

I’ve found my voice.

In a small room of utopia.

In those moments, the Habibi Kiosk becomes my favourite place in the world.

It’s the place where I’ll spend so many more evenings, whether as guest or host. Every now and then, there’ll be a cheeky flirtation, or I’ll share laughter there with future friends. Moments will follow where my eyes fill with tears – both of sorrow and joy. A few times, I’ll even meet my idols there. And on so many other occasions, I’ll be inspired and head home with a huge grin on my face.