Clara Hoheisel works for radio and is active in several honorary positions.
Democratic participation is a value that guides me in life.
For me, democratic participation is evident in situations where voices are heard. As a member of the Youth Inquiry Commission, I work to ensure that participation is translated into structures, recommendations, and political processes. As a board member of the German Youth Press and a member of the Youth Advisory Board of the German Theater, participation means allowing for co-creation. In short, for me, democracy becomes concrete where participation has consequences.
Independence is a value that constantly challenges me.
Especially in voluntary positions, which rely on funding, committee dynamics, and personal relationships, it's a constant challenge to maintain close relationships without becoming overly influenced. I have to make decisions that not everyone likes, justify assessments, and disappoint expectations. For me, remaining independent means acting transparently, addressing conflicts openly, and prioritizing the cause over personal loyalties. It's demanding, but necessary.
Commitment is a value that our society should embrace more.
I often observe that commitment is losing its importance. Last-minute cancellations are just one symptom. I find it more problematic when commitments are conditional, conversations have no consequences, and responsibility evaporates into the realm of possibility. Especially in a city like Berlin, where a better option always seems conceivable, commitment is often perceived as an imposition. Yet, in my opinion, commitment is a prerequisite for collaboration and relationships to become sustainable in the first place.
