When you tried getting a programming job, what kinds of companies did you contact? In Germany, especially smaller companies tend to give lateral entrants a chance.
Discussion
I guess the problem with that is I don’t meet the bare requirements of job listings. And recruiters are extremely strict about that stuff because they don’t know what any of it means
Have you tried just emailing founders of smaller companies? Like agencies that build web sites/apps for SMEs? If there are any in your area, that could be a start. E.g. ask if you can join them for a coffee.