BY YANA MURASH
More people nowadays are beginning to become global citizens by getting to know more countries through their culture and language. This is very important in these times especially in a country that welcomes people of various nationalities. As Flora Lewis said, “Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things but also learning another way to think about things.” Knowing how to speak two or more languages opens not only doors but also corridors to more places.
One group that helps people learn a new language is the Riyadh Language Exchange, a non-profit organization whose initiative is to exchange languages and cultures of more than 16 countries.
Mohammed Matham is the man behind it. He came up with the idea when he met with language exchange groups in Argentina, Croatia and New Zealand. He believes that the Riyadh Language Exchange is an opportunity for people from different nationalities and backgrounds to gather and exchange languages and culture. For him, learning the language comes by practice, and what the group does is expose learners to native speakers and other learners as well.
The group aims to spread awareness about different societies wherein a cultural dialogue is built and mutual values are disseminated between the members. The Riyadh Language Exchange also wants to create an area of convergence between local and foreign stakeholders to respect and welcome others without ethnic, community or linguistic discrimination. They also encourage the Saudi youth to learn new languages.
Two years ago, they started with only three languages — Arabic, Spanish and English; now, they have more than 16 including Arabic sign language, Hebrew, Tigrinya, French, German, Korean and Italian. New learners need not be intimidated as they have three levels for some of the languages — beginner, intermediate and fluent. New languages are also being considered to be added at every event. A weekly radio program in English is also an idea that the group may do in the future.
These language opportunities are not only a mere hobby. Members have already used their skills in the different languages as an edge in their studies, their work and even for their business.
Matham and his friends at the Riyadh Language Exchange are happy to welcome new members. Join and be immersed in a group that embraces language and cultural diversity.
Riyadh Language Exchange
Website: www.riyadhle.org
Social Media: @riyadhleorg
Email: info@riyadhle.org
