PUBLISHED 07.09.2023
READING TIME 8

The Essence of Cross-Cultural Conversations

The name “Cross-Cultural Conversations” was deliberately chosen to reflect the group’s “inclusive and open ethos”. The intention of the project is to promote an “egalitarian environment,” where conversations and connections can flourish across a range of cultures and perspectives.

At its core, CCC is a voluntary project aimed at providing informal English learning opportunities in small groups to individuals seeking international protection. This group welcomes all those interested in joining, connecting with new individuals, and improving their English.

Their sessions go beyond traditional classroom settings, offering a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to enhance their language skills while engaging in meaningful cultural exchanges.

 

What was the motivation behind CCC?

Several people, who were already involved in a local solidarity group aimed at assisting newcomers in emergency accommodation centres in the North Inner City, recognised a need for English language learning support. Many local language programs, especially free ones, were overwhelmed and oversubscribed with applicants. The project evolved organically and spurred a surge of interest in volunteering, attracting both those with good English-speaking abilities and those eager to learn. 

Under Dr Peter Sheekey’s guidance, training sessions were conducted to facilitate class delivery. The endeavour not only addressed a pressing demand but also provided a meaningful platform for community involvement, transforming it into a valuable outlet for individuals to engage with.

The volunteers are made up of a core of about 30 people from across about 10 nationalities some of whom are in the international protection process. This volunteering work gives them hands-on experience in Ireland and provides them with essential references that can pave the way for future work and educational opportunities. 

How can someone join / volunteer at CCC?

To become a part of CCC, individuals are invited to join through a collective spirit of solidarity. The initiative welcomes people of all backgrounds who may have varying levels of availability and commitment. Utilising social media, the project facilitates connections and extends a call for volunteers. The commitment level depends on personal availability and dedication, with a flexible approach accommodating individual schedules. Rooted in an “organic and grassroots ethos”, CCC ensures inclusivity, making it an open opportunity for anyone wishing to contribute.

What kind of skills do you need to be a volunteer?

Volunteering with CCC requires qualities of friendliness and openness. The emphasis is on fostering a supportive environment where mutual learning takes place. While the main goal is to help individuals improve their English, volunteers find themselves gaining knowledge in various unexpected realms through interactions. The absence of a fixed curriculum means tailoring assistance to individual needs. The diversity of participants spans from beginners, unfamiliar even with the alphabet, to those proficient in English who might want help writing their CV’s. Beyond language, the project provides unspoken support, “fostering connections and promoting positive mental health by being a friendly presence.” It’s a dynamic space where personal growth goes hand in hand with facilitating others’ progress.

How did you set up the project? 

Initiating the project from scratch, CCC began without funds and relied on the generosity of individuals like Dr Peter Sheekey who offered invaluable support. This initial backing was pivotal, as it provided the confidence to establish the project.

Locating suitable venues posed difficulties, yet CCC received encouraging responses from rent-free venues such as a direct provision centre and a church hall. Space in the DP centre was key to getting off the ground, and despite encountering initial challenges related to security at the door, and a lot of changes in the building due to construction work, CCC persisted. The process demanded patience, including Garda vetting and the arrangement of public liability insurance. We all chipped in to buy basic provisions such as tea, coffee, and biscuits and were later grateful to receive some financial support from the City Council. However, the most crucial resource is time – for both volunteers teachers and student learners to contribute and benefit from this endeavour.

What advice would you give to someone or a group who would like to set up a similar project in their community?

For those wanting to start a similar project in their community, seeking guidance from other initiatives in the area is invaluable. Adopting a collaborative approach in teaching style, as opposed to an overly academic one, is recommended to ensure accessibility and prevent discouragement in language learning. CCC has also become the basis for social links with the inclusion of diverse activities like drumming classes, theatre and gallery visits, and trips to the park and the swimming pool. This has really created a sense of community and solidarity, everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow with people from all over the world.

Hear What Learners Have to Say About CCC

For those wanting to start a similar project in their community, seeking guidance from other initiatives in the area is invaluable. Adopting a collaborative approach in teaching style, as opposed to an overly academic one, is recommended to ensure accessibility and prevent discouragement in language learning. CCC has also become the basis for social links with the inclusion of diverse activities like drumming classes, theatre and gallery visits, and trips to the park and the swimming pool. This has really created a sense of community and solidarity, everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow with people from all over the world.

 

“My experience of intercultural conversations has been amazing and beyond amazing. I really enjoyed learning English with the best teachers of this beautiful language. I learned a lot about a lot of topics and things, I learned a lot about the culture of the great Irish people, I became a good speaker, I learned a lot, and I was able to reach the labour market without facing the language problem, and this is all in a record time of about 7 months only. Thank you to everyone who taught me, and I tell you that you are real builders, because you build people.”

Learner 1

“My experience of Cross-Cultural Conversations is great. I enjoyed the vibe and how the teachers really care about us and help us and how they are so patient with us. I learned about the Irish people and their culture; and how we can live and communicate with different nations with all respect despite our differences.”

Learner 2

Hear What Volunteers Have to Say About CCC

 

“I enjoyed being a part of something positive and forward thinking. What began as helping others with their English, whether beginner or advanced became extending the hands of friendship, on both sides. Getting to know people from so many different countries has been an enriching experience and a humbling one also given the circumstances in which they have found themselves.”

Volunteer Teacher 1

“My experience of Cross-Cultural Conversation is to listen to other different stories from other people who are not from my Country. I enjoyed making Conversation with them and also having tea and coffee together. I have learned about the history of Ireland which was so interesting and I also still want to know more about it.”

Volunteer Teacher 2

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