Looking for Conversational Partners
Conversation Partners Wanted
The story of Nico Lenaerts, volunteer at Crescendo CVO since 2017
"In 2017 I moved to Walem and learned that Crescendo CVO was looking for 'conversation partners' for the Dutch conversation hour for non-native speakers. That’s how I became a volunteer. This fits well with the woodcarving course I also take there."
"On Tuesdays, I also help for an hour in the Dutch classes for beginners. I assist the teacher during the lesson, guide the students in group exercises, listen, and help where needed."
"The conversation hour is an extra practice module in small groups during the Dutch lessons. As a volunteer, I can freely choose the conversation topics. I adapt them to the lesson content, the participants, and their language level. For beginners, for example, we talk about language and clarify the questions they have. I use games, dice, or card sets with questions provided by Floris, the teacher who also leads the conversation hour."
"I enjoy interacting with people from very diverse backgrounds and cultures, and I like helping whenever I am called upon. It also gives me a lot of satisfaction. Sometimes a contact grows into a trustful relationship. For instance, I helped a student from Somalia with his administration and as a supervisor during his practical driving exam. These are experiences that stay with me."
"The students are enthusiastic during the conversation hour; it is a unique opportunity to speak Dutch because students often only use their native language at home. Sometimes contacts continue outside the class. For example, a group met at the playground in Tivolipark during the holidays. This shows that the conversation hour is really important for the students."