Nerissa Roberts, our Head of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) was recently invited by Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, to speak at an event celebrating #InternationalWomensDay.
The event celebrated the power of ESOL in helping women find their place in the world.
Nerissa’s speech highlighted how ESOL ‘transforms lives’, and how the subject is ‘not just about language, but about empowerment, independence and opportunity’ for the 550 female ESOL learners that the College currently supports.
She spoke about how ESOL gives women confidence to navigate the world, use their voice and build a future where they can thrive.
With a diverse learner cohort spanning more than 40 countries, Nerissa explained that “for many new arrivals, the idea that women have the right to education, employment and political participation – free from discrimination – is new or something they haven’t previously been able to claim for themselves.”
“One learner from Sudan told us that before joining ESOL, she felt invisible, like her voice didn’t matter. Now, she speaks up with confidence, taking part in community discussions and making herself heard,” she added.
Past and present Oldham College ESOL learners also attended this event, with some choosing to share their stories.
One former learner, Manjeet, is now studying for a BA (Hons) degree, while another, Qazi Marzia Babakarkhail, is the Constituency Caseworker for Debbie Abrahams.
Others have since progressed to university, determined to return to their previous careers in areas including medicine, law and government.
“Hearing [the learners] speak about how learning English has transformed their lives was inspiring, emotional and a real reminder of why this work matters so much,” Nerissa said.
“It’s so important that investment in ESOL isn’t seen as a ‘nice to have’, but as essential for building and enriching communities.
“It was a joy to be in a room full of strong, determined women who lift each other up. I was thrilled to be invited and I’m looking forward to involving our learners in future community engagements with Debbie.”
