Immigrants Leading Language Classes

What problem would you like to solve?

I feel as if there are not enough free and holistic language classes available! Languages are a key skill in our interconnected world and we need ways to make it more fun and engaging to pursue new language learning.

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

Queens is the world's borough! It is important for community members to learn other languages and cultures to be able to communicate with one another and make people feel comfortable in their native language.

What idea do you have to address the problem?

We should establish travelling language courses across our borough including in key languages such as Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, Mandarin, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian, etc. However, these classes should be taught my native speakers from Queens, and should include cultural elements and fun activities. So, participants could learn both the language but also more about the cultures the language is associated with. I would imagine this be a small group that meets twice a month over the year. There would be one group per language.

Who would that help?

Those seeking to learn languages and meet neighbors, but also immigrants in Queens who could teach the classes!

What NYC borough would benefit from your idea?

Queens