“The time of little hands and feet is over”

Refugees who want to integrate come to learn the language at the adult education school (ROC Amsterdam) in Amsterdam North. Mohamed (57) has been a language coach here for 4.5 years. He steps in when the teacher notices challenges for the student in learning the language.Five years ago, Mohamed, originally from Morocco, learned Dutch by himself at this school. It was easy for him because he has been living in the Netherlands for a long time. This naturally stood out, and when the course ended, the teacher asked Mohamed if he would like to help other newcomers with the language. “I enjoyed helping and being asked to do so. Today, for example, I spend three sessions helping six people make progress. What I do is talk with them, read simple books in spoken language, listen to audio exercises on the internet, and then repeat, listen, and read. At the moment, I am mainly helping people from Eritrea and Syria.”

No person at the counter

“The lessons are very important. You must master the language in the Netherlands, otherwise, you will have a problem. It used to be different. A little was enough, with hands and feet. Back then, there were people at a counter to help you, but that time is over. For simple things like getting coffee here in the hallway or buying a train ticket, you need to read and understand Dutch. There are no people to help, everything is automated.”

Every day something fun

Mohamed only attended primary school in Morocco. He has been living in the Netherlands for a long time, is an avid golfer, and feels responsible to do something for his fellow human beings, to contribute his part. “I learn to interact with people here, learn about different cultures, different opinions, I hear unique stories. Every day there is something fun or new that I experience. And I don’t let anyone leave without learning something. For example, sometimes I accompany a newcomer to a doctor. ‘What language do you speak?’ a doctor asked recently. ‘A universal language!'”

This is not Mohamed’s first volunteer work. “I have guided activities with elderly people through Cordaan. For example, dancing with people in wheelchairs. It was mainly about having fun. And at the care institution Amsta, I delivered meals. The people there were often really waiting for me to come by. That is beautiful, those people are so happy. Now as a language coach, I work more with young people. Also very nice. And besides: by teaching the language, I am still improving my own Dutch. A win-win!”Interview: Helen Kooistra
Photos: Jackie Mulder

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Check out the various options in Amsterdam North hereWe are happy to assist you in finding enjoyable and meaningful volunteer work that suits you.This can be done online or face to face.