On August 31, 2025, local stories remind us of the diverse journeys that shape our communities. One such journey is that of Miriam Reisinger, a key figure in the „Heimweh-Series,“ who has distinguished herself through her inspiring narrative and contributions toward a more inclusive society. Growing up in Debant, she made her way to Nordtirol, before ultimately settling in Vienna to pursue a degree in Educational Sciences.
In her early career, Miriam faced the challenges brought about by the refugee crisis, working closely with unaccompanied minor refugees. Her experiences illuminated the societal prejudices that were rampant at that time. To avoid burnout, Miriam decided to pivot her career, earning a diploma as a nutrition trainer and conducting workshops on healthy eating, a decision that truly reflects her adaptability and commitment to personal well-being. She also gained valuable experience in the gastronomy sector at a vegetarian bistro. But she didn’t stop there; she took on a role in a primary school in Vienna, nurturing a classroom over several years while furthering her academic qualifications. In 2022, she achieved a degree in primary education from the Pedagogical University in Baden.
The Impact of Migration Media Education
Amidst Miriam’s personal efforts, broader societal dynamics have been shaping how migration and refugee issues are perceived due to media representations. A research project titled „Flucht als Krise?“—backed by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research—reveals critical insights into how these topics are engaged by children and adolescents. According to JFF, the reporting is often fixated on events in Germany, leaning toward negative portrayals that often overlook the stories and voices of refugees, which is closely examined in various studies on media representation.
Findings show that reporting frequently portrays refugees more as threats than opportunities, leading to a skewed understanding of their experiences. This lack of balanced dialogue particularly impacts younger audiences, with adolescents primarily consuming migration-related content through media, especially social platforms. Non-media interactions, such as school or family conversations about these topics, are actually less impactful for many young voices.
Public Perception Shaped by Media
As pointed out by De Gruyter, media representations play a significant role in shaping public perceptions of refugees and immigrants. Since the surge of refugee arrivals from the Middle East in 2015, many narratives have tended to frame these individuals as either victims or potential threats, limiting their voices in the media discourse. This systematic bias often leads to entrenched stereotypes and supports restrictive policies.
The implications are clear: if young people are chiefly consuming narratives that paint refugees in a negative light, then engagement and empathy towards these communities can diminish. Younger generations express a keen expectation for truthful and contextualized media representation, underscoring the crucial need for thoughtful educational initiatives and improved media literacy to help counter these harmful stereotypes.
Cultivating Dreams and Future Aspirations
In her personal life, Miriam is not just focusing on her career; she is also planning a future with her fiancé, Martin. As they look forward to their wedding next year, Miriam’s ambition extends further into her entrepreneurial venture—a “Mamiladen” in Wiener Neustadt, which offers sustainable products for parents and children. With workshops aimed at guiding (expecting) parents, she embodies the spirit of community and care that is often overshadowed by the larger conversations about migration and identity.
In sharing her story through platforms like Instagram, Miriam inspires others to embrace a sustainable lifestyle while remaining connected to their roots, whether that be in Niederösterreich or beyond. With support from figures like Mayor Klaus Schneeberger, she is truly making strides as an „exile East Tyrolean“ carving out her niche in Wien while navigating her complex identity.
As we reflect on these narratives, it’s vital that we continue having conversations around the representation of refugees and the importance of inclusive stories that encompass diverse voices. The journey of Miriam Reisinger and the pressing themes from current media research highlight a crucial need for empathy, understanding, and connection in the face of complex societal issues.