From Learner to Instructor: My Journey with ESOL at ISWA
Story written by Tamana Mehran
When English classes first started at ISWA, my friend told me, "English classes are starting. If you want, go." I said, "I have a baby, so I can't." She said, "You are allowed to take your child." That’s where it all began.
As a mother, I appreciated the added support from ISWA’s childcare services. Several of us in the class had babies, and knowing they were being cared for allowed us to focus fully on learning. The classroom is also very culturally sensitive, which made it possible for everyone to learn comfortably while honoring their cultural and faith values.
I started as a learner in Instructor Beth’s class. The first thing I learned was how to make doctor appointments — something I couldn’t do before. That was very important for us. She taught us daily vocabulary and gave us the courage to speak. She didn’t let me say “I can’t.” I learned the word “can” from Instructor Beth.
ISWA offered a knitting class that allowed learners to continue working on their English and learn how to knit at the same time. It was my first time participating in a class like this, and I found it very welcoming, beneficial, and professionally facilitated. One of the main reasons for the class’s success was the instructors’ dedication and kindness, which helped all of us complete the course with confidence.
After my classes ended, I became an instructor at ISWA. When I started teaching, I understood my learners’ problems right away. They had trouble with English and didn’t always understand the words and sentences. When I translated into Pashto and Dari, they understood. That made them and me happy and encouraged them to keep learning. Now they can write their names, surnames, mobile numbers, and home addresses themselves. They are so interested that they call me several times a day to ask when classes start. I am so happy that I could do something.
My experience in the English classes has been life changing. As a learner, I gained the tools to live in a new place and the confidence to connect with others. Now, as an instructor, I support other immigrants who have overcome big challenges to find safety and stability. I don’t just teach English, I create a space where learners feel seen, supported, and safe. This kind of support means a lot to immigrant families trying to build new lives. And even though I am the instructor, I often feel like I’m learning from their stories and strength too.
About Tamana Mehran
I am an Afghan woman, born and raised in Afghanistan. I completed twelfth grade with honors and studied journalism for two years. Because of difficult circumstances, I could not continue my education. I immigrated to the U.S. in October 2022. I began learning English and now teach English to Afghan women at ISWA (Islamic Society of the Washington Area).
