Ms. Hundt, what do you associate with Siegen and what particularly appeals to you about your new role?

"What I particularly like about Siegen is that city life and nature are so close together. You can quickly find yourself in the middle of the action. With lots of shops and restaurants and just as quickly out in the countryside. What appeals to me most about my new job is the interaction with the various stakeholders in the city center. No two days are the same, and the topics are very diverse. As the central point of contact, I look forward to working alongside everyone involved to gradually improve our city centre."

What makes a beautiful city center for you personally, one where you enjoy spending time?

"For me, it comes down to a few key things. First of all, a good sense of community: open, friendly encounters and a well-maintained, safe environment. Attractive places to linger are important. The Siegufer is a good example of this. A balanced mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and cultural offerings such as the Apollo Theater or the Museum of Contemporary Art provides variety. Not to forget: green spaces and historical highlights such as the Upper and Lower Castle."

Looking back on your first few weeks, what has struck you positively about Siegen city center, and where do you see a need for action?

"First, the positive: The city center stakeholders are really committed and friendly. I was impressed by that. I am particularly pleased with the good communication they maintain among themselves and with us at city marketing. That is a good basis for future cooperation. Where I see potential: Strengthening the sense of community! What one person cannot achieve alone, many can achieve together. Together, we can noticeably revitalize the city center. I am firmly convinced of that."

What topics are currently on your agenda? Where would you like to place individual emphasis in the future?

"Personal interaction is very important to me. Greater proximity and open exchange. That's why I would like to establish regular open office hours that interested parties can sign up for: every first Tuesday of the month from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and every last Thursday from 3 to 4:30 p.m. This will give city center stakeholders and citizens the opportunity to speak with me directly outside of official meetings. Trusting relationships and genuine cooperation are my top priorities. I am open to everyone's concerns and ideas."

What are your long-term goals for Siegen's city center?

"My predecessor has already made a lot of progress, and I want to continue the collaborative approach, as it has proven to be useful and effective. With established campaigns such as ‘Der Berg ruft’ (The Mountain Calls), but also with new ideas, we want to make the city center even more attractive and create further opportunities for people to meet. A city center comes alive when people come together. People should love coming here, enjoy their time, and feel completely at home. I will work together with our strong network to achieve this."

One last personal question to finish: Is there a place in Siegen city center that is particularly close to your heart?

"Definitely the castle gardens! Especially in summer, it's a wonderful place for a short break or a stroll. The ‘green oasis’ against the historic backdrop of the Upper Castle is something very special."