Growing up in Toronto, I was inspired to teach English after witnessing the challenges faced by newcomer students in my class, many of whom were refugees. I connected with them because I saw how isolating it could be to navigate a new country and language. My curiosity about other cultures and love of making people laugh only deepened my desire to help. Throughout my school years, English remained one of my stronger subjects, and I became fascinated by how language is developed and processed in the brain, leading me to study the Cognitive Science of Language at university. Along the way, I studied French and American Sign Language, which gave me a deeper appreciation for language learning.
In my final year of post-secondary studies, I took a TESL Methodologies course that clarified my path: I would teach English as a Second Language (ESL). Working in LINC programs has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. The moments when my students begin to use English independently—like writing their name for the first time or asking a simple question—reinforce why I do what I do. One of my most memorable moments was when a learner, who had struggled a lot with English, suddenly began naming English nouns from flashcards. The entire class cheered, and that pride and accomplishment still motivate me every day.
I’m passionate about teaching practical language skills. At Yes Employment Services (Nipissing), we often take our students out of the classroom to practice English in real-life situations, whether it's talking to vendors at the Farmer’s Market or filling out a library card application. Seeing students successfully navigate these tasks is incredibly rewarding. In addition to teaching, I serve as the Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor for our LINC program. I genuinely enjoy this role, as it pushes me to keep learning, stay current in the field, and continue growing as a leader and mentor to both learners and fellow instructors.
Five years ago, my husband and I moved to North Bay to enjoy a quieter life surrounded by nature.
As outdoor enthusiasts, we love exploring the local trails, lakes, and beaches. When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me walking my dog, swimming in one of our many lakes, or enjoying a good book by the pool.
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Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is a FREE language training program funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)/Government of Canada. LINC is designed to assist immigrants in learning English.
