Building bridges through language
On the International Day of Education, we honor the role of education and the people who make it accessible to everyone. For asylum seekers and refugees in Croatia, language education is a critical step toward integration, independence, and opportunity. At Borders:none, we are proud to support these efforts, and Olivia, one of our international volunteers, exemplifies the impact of this work.
Olivia joined our team in September 2024. She had prior experience in non-formal education, especially with children, but teaching English was new to her. This new experience brought its challenges, from adapting lessons to different skill levels to overcoming language barriers in the classroom. “I’ve found it a bit challenging to find a level that everyone can work at, but as I got to know the people in the class, I adjusted. Sometimes there was a language barrier, but we helped each other with translations and explanations,” Olivia reflects. What she finds most rewarding is seeing the students learn and make progress. She also enjoys the togetherness and fun they share during lessons. To create an inclusive and engaging environment, Olivia carefully plans her lessons using resources she finds online. “I try to build the classes around something interactive, like exercises or games, so the students can talk and use the language as much as possible,” she explains.
This approach not only enhances their skills but also builds confidence and encourages participation, regardless of their starting level. Being her first time teaching adults, and teaching a language, she had to find her way to plan and carry out classes. She found most of the resources online, and she always tried to build the classes around something interactive like exercises or games. She adjusted the material found online to each person’s level, to allow everyone to participate.
Interaction, active participation, and flexibility are three of the main principles of non-formal education, and what makes it so valuable in a context as the one at Borders:none. People from different backgrounds, educational levels, and learning goals come together and share their experiences, making learning a collaborative process. Regarding this, Olivia says “Non-formal education makes education more accessible. We can adapt the learning to each participant’s level and focus on what they need in their daily lives rather than sticking to a strict curriculum. This personalized, flexible approach ensures that students are not only learning but also gaining practical tools they can use immediately—whether navigating everyday interactions, finding employment, or pursuing further education.
Teaching English to refugees goes far beyond grammar and vocabulary; it opens doors to opportunity and inclusion. “I think it’s really important for their inclusion in society,” Olivia emphasizes. “Not having a common language can lead to isolation in the long run. Learning English increases their independence and opens up opportunities for jobs, further education, and social interactions.”
At Borders:none, we believe education is a cornerstone of empowerment and inclusion. Thanks to volunteers just like Olivia, we can keep working provide access to education to everyone. Let’s continue to build bridges—one lesson at a time.
Get Involved: Join us in making a difference. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, your support helps provide refugees with the tools they need to succeed. Together, we can create a more inclusive world.
Comments
Hello. I read your article…
Hello. I read your article and benefited a lot. I have been providing language training to foreigners and immigrants in Turkey for many years. It is very nice to meet you.