It’s been over a year now since I began volunteering as a French teacher for IWSO. My virtual class provides students of all levels of French with a place to practice their French grammar and conversation skills once a week. Looking back, it’s amazing to see the progress that my students have made in French, and that I have made as a teacher and volunteer!

In 2022, when I first arrived in Ottawa as a student, I wanted to get involved with my new community right away. I have always loved volunteering and IWSO was one of the first organizations that came up in my searches. Their mission to support racialized and immigrant women is so important and it’s been amazing to use my knowledge of French and experience as a French tutor to help achieve that!

        In Canada in general, but even more so in a bilingual city like Ottawa, learning French is the gateway to so many opportunities. Many jobs, especially public sector jobs, list French as an asset or even a requirement. Knowing how to navigate conversations in French empowers women to find more job opportunities, navigate bureaucracy to seek out government services and to feel more confident in day-to-day conversation! It’s not just about speaking a new language—it’s about feeling more empowered and included in the city they call home.

        As someone who started learning French at a young age, I know that learning a new language can be intimidating. Fostering a safe and welcoming environment where everyone is comfortable to participate and learn French is very important to me. I aim to make my class as accessible as possible to all levels of French, so that I can provide meaningful support to as many women as possible. I’m always open to student feedback and suggestions!

        My experience as a volunteer here has been truly amazing. Planning out lessons and then seeing the progress that each of my students has made since joining is an amazing feeling. In addition, the small moments in each class are equally fulfilling. I love getting to know my students through practicing French conversation, the moments when they ask smart questions and when difficult concepts “click” for them.

Overall, it’s an honour to be part of a team working towards such an important mission, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute in my own way. Everyone at IWSO is so passionate about their work and the organization’s mission, which is so inspiring. It’s a great place to volunteer and use your experience to contribute to an amazing cause!

        If you’re interested in learning a new language or improving your skills I would love to have you in the class! I teach class virtually every Thursday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm.