How languages changed my life – stories of where languages can take you
As part of the Festival, we are gathering and sharing stories to inspire people about language learning in a series called ‘How Languages changed my life’.
These are stories of people of all ages and backgrounds who are from here, came to live, work or study here or left the region and went elsewhere – about what languages mean to them and how it has impacted their lives.
You can read other people’s stories and share your own as part of this celebration of languages and where they can take you.
Who is it for?
- Anyone interested in how languages can shape future opportunities, life and careers
- Those seeking some inspiration for language learning and teaching
- People with stories to tell of their language journeys and how their life has been impacted by speaking another language
When will it happen?
- Stories are being collected from January up to the end of the Festival on 31st March
What is the activity?
As part of the Festival, we are gathering and sharing stories to inspire people about language learning in a series called ‘How Languages changed my life’. These are stories of people of all ages and backgrounds who are from here, came to live, work or study here or left the region and went elsewhere – about what languages mean to them and how it has impacted their lives.
We know that learning languages has many benefits from boosting confidence, widening perspectives about the world and how we interact with others, our awareness and appreciation of other cultures and ways of life, as well as the positive impact on raising aspirations and influencing opportunities.
By sharing these stories, we hope to:
- inspire young people and demonstrate the benefits of language learning and the positive impacts this can have on their future life and careers
- celebrate our diverse languages and cultures
- inspire people to take up languages
How do I get involved?
- Read the stories people have shared about ‘How Languages changed my life’
- Click here to get in touch and share your story for this year’s Festival of ‘How Languages changed my life’ by 31st March 2024
- Share the stories more widely on twitter @EYFOLNE, facebook, Instagram eyfolne and use the hashtag #EYFOLNE
- All contributions will be shared on our Stories page here and on our social media channels.
Further information and links?
- For teachers, parents/carers, pupils and careers advisers: We have compiled some resources about languages and careers that may be helpful in informing future education and career choices. Click here to access these free resources
Who is organising this?
- International Newcastle is compiling these stories on behalf of Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages 2024.
- To share your language stories, contact Declan Baharini by email at info@expressyourselfne.com
