Imagine a single thread of communication connecting two people across thousands of kilometers - one person eager to share knowledge and the other eager to receive it. Now imagine thousands of such threads weaving together into a tapestry of 50,000 lives touched by connection, growth, and friendship. This is the story of ENGin, an organization that began with a small idea and has grown into a global movement that brings people from all over the world together in a common mission to empower Ukrainians through English language learning.
In a world increasingly shaped by globalization and cultural exchange, ENGin demonstrates how seemingly ordinary conversations can change lives. From a living room in Kyiv to a coffee shop in New York, from a smartphone in a small Ukrainian village to a laptop in a bustling office in London, ENGin is crossing distances and building relationships that transcend language barriers.
It's not just a story of numbers - 50,000 participants (nearly 24,000 volunteers and over 26,000 students) - it's a story of human relationships. It's a story of conversations that change minds, lessons that launch careers, and friendships that redefine borders. This impressive growth reflects not only the success of ENGin's innovative language exchange model, but also its profound impact on individuals, communities, and the world at large.
Impact of the program on an individual level
Although ENGin was originally created to help Ukrainians improve their level of spoken English, it has become clear over time that the impact is much broader: on the level of life change for each participant, on the level of development of Ukraine, and on the level of global connections.
Each ENGin participant's story is unique, and for each of them, the program has become their own life's impetus to change for the better and to understand others. Here are three main aspects of the program's impact on the individual level, both among students and volunteers:
Improved English language skills
According to program data, 99% of students report an improvement in their English language skills, which demonstrates the effectiveness of ENGin's conversational model of practice. Student Anzhela shared her experience:
“This program helped me get out of my comfort zone and meet new people. I really feel that my English has improved in the area of listening and speaking. This was an unforgettable experience with a wonderful volunteer who took into account my wishes and opinions at our meetings. I want to thank you once again. Thank you.”
Professional development
ENGin has also helped those seeking career development, and it's not just about practicing English for work, it's also about the dozens of other opportunities the program provides for participants: thematic communities, courses, guest lectures and much more. 42% of students who joined the program for professional development later received a promotion or new job! As student Maria noted:
“First of all, thanks for this amazing opportunity - I learned a lot from my speaking buddy, starting from language tips and self-confidence, ending with cultural, historical facts and local recipes. We even cook kutya and pamuchy with poppy seeds together on Christmas, so I believe I teach her something too! Most of all, this program really helps me find a good job, because I passed my English interviews successfully!”
A friendship that spans continents
Just imagine, 79% of the program participants said that they had made real friends through ENGin! A simple act of language exchange turned into a deeply personal connection.
Volunteer Bill shared:
“ENGin provides a very simple and quick process for volunteering, and provides the tools and support to ensure a good experience for both volunteers and students. I feel very lucky to have been matched with Katia, as she has achieved a lot and continues to explore, has many interests and has become a great friend. As you will find out in the ENGin community, developing lifelong friendships is quite common in the program.”
National impact: Supporting Ukraine's future
Amid the challenges facing Ukraine in the wake of russia's full-scale invasion, programs like ENGin have a significant long-term impact. By helping Ukrainians improve their English language skills, the program provides participants with the tools to access global opportunities, connect with international communities, and amplify their voice on the world stage.
For many Ukrainians, English is not just a language, but a lifeline. Students gain confidence that they can pursue a global education, defend their country's interests, and contribute to its recovery and growth. By expanding its reach, ENGin fosters resilience and optimism among Ukrainian participants, as they are spoken to by almost the entire world through the voices of thousands of ENGin volunteers.
In addition, ENGin helps volunteers to better understand Ukrainians and the situation in Ukraine, to see the needs and to support them to the best of their ability. 65% of volunteers report that after three months of participation in the program, they started supporting Ukraine or Ukrainians in other ways. We have already written an article about inspiring stories of volunteer help, which can be found here.
Making a global difference through volunteering
ENGin's impact extends far beyond Ukraine. Volunteers join together in clubs and chapters to informally communicate about their participation in the program and to form new connections. Students in schools and universities from around the world have the opportunity to volunteer in the program, practicing life and professional skills. International organizations and corporations support ENGin financially, or involve their employees in the program, and hold joint corporate meetings with students.
Volunteer Nancy wrote:
“When I signed up, my intention was to help someone improve their English language skills. What I got in return was completely unexpected and invaluable to me as well.”
The ripple effect of ENGin
ENGin's growth from a small startup to a global initiative demonstrates the power of human connection. With a simple but effective mission, the organization:
Provides participants with new skills and opportunities.
Strengthens Ukraine's ability to thrive on the global stage.
Promotes empathy and understanding between people from different cultures.
ENGin is celebrating the achievement of 50,000 participants, but this is not the final destination, only a milestone on the path of growth. Every conversation between a student and a volunteer is a seed that grows into confidence, opportunity, and lasting friendships.
The world needs more of these connections. ENGin invites you to be a part of this journey - to help weave the next thread in this global tapestry, to build bridges that span distances, and to create a future where understanding and opportunity know no borders.
To learn more about the ENGin program and how you can get involved, visit the ENGin website.
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