Case Study: Ning – Chatter to Volunteer
BackgroundĀ
When Ning moved from Beijing, China to Newbury with her son, everything felt new and unfamiliar. She faced the challenge of learning English, understanding local systems, and finding her place in a new community.Ā
āWhen I came to the UK, I didnāt know anything, how to rent a house, take the bus or pay bills. My English was poor, and I had no confidence to speak.āĀ
Discovering EducafeĀ
When Ning first discovered Educafe through an internet search, she was drawn to its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. She knew it was a place where anyone could come to chat, practise English and meet people.
āI found Educafe online. It said everyone was welcome, free to come, free to talk. When I first visited, the volunteers were so friendly and patient. That was very important for me.āĀ
Building Confidence and CommunityĀ
Through weekly conversations and support from volunteers, Ningās English improved dramatically. Beyond language learning, Educafe helped her feel part of a ābig familyā. She felt like she fitted into this safe space where people from different cultures, ages and backgrounds come together.Ā
āWe sit together, talk and learn from each other. There are older people, young parents, people learning English, everyone helps one another. It feels warm and kind.āĀ
Ning saw how Educafe supported others too, from parents in the Parent Village learning how to read and play with their babies, to older residents who come to socialise, play dominoes and reduce isolation.Ā
āSome seniors live alone, but at Educafe they can chat, laugh and make new friends. It really helps their mental health.āĀ
Rediscovering Her PurposeĀ
Back in China, Ning was a qualified yoga instructor with over 500 hours of training. Language barriers initially made it difficult for her to continue teaching in the UK. But through Educafe, she was offered the opportunity to lead chair yoga sessions.Ā
āEducafe gave me the opportunity to teach again. It was a big help for me. Now I teach every week, helping older people with flexibility, knee and foot pain, and making them feel happy and relaxed.āĀ
Giving BackĀ
Ningās experience embodies the spirit of Educafe, people helping people, learning together and building belonging through kindness and shared purpose.Ā Ā
āThe volunteers helped me so much. Now I can help others. Helping my students makes me happy too. Educafe helped me find my confidence and my place here.āĀ
The classes have been a huge success improving wellbeing for participants and reigniting Ningās confidence and professional identity.Ā
One seated wellbeing student says āWe love having Ning as a teacher, she makes us laugh and has such a caring and supportive approach with us. Sheās so patient, knowledgeable and inspiring. We love helping her with her English too! We correct her and sheās so enthusiastic to learn from us.āĀ
Even with a busy weekly schedule, Ning always makes time for Educafe.Ā
āWednesday is my busiest day, college in the morning, Educafe after, then yoga class and picking up my son. But Iām always happy to come. Itās the best day of my week.āĀ
ImpactĀ
- – Improved language skills and confidenceĀ
- – Social connection and reduced isolationĀ
- – Pathway to volunteering and professional contributionĀ
- – Enhanced wellbeing for older people through community yogaĀ
- – Model of mutual support and integrationĀ
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ConclusionĀ
Ningās story shows how Educafe transforms lives, not only by improving language skills and confidence, but by helping people share their talents, form friendships, and give back to the community.Ā
āEvery country needs a place like Educafe, somewhere warm, friendly and full of care. It helps people belong.āĀ
