What do you think about N.E.S.T?

“Brilliant. Not just for learning English; we also get another benefit because we can meet new people and make friends. When I came to this country I didn’t know many people, but at N.E.S.T I could make friends from different countries, cultures and colours. I feel like N.E.S.T is my family. N.E.S.T is fantastic. I’m looking forward to coming back.”

Has N.E.S.T helped you to communicate better in English?

Yes. When I came to Newcastle, N.E.S.T was my first thing (my first point of contact). I was shy. It made me open up to people, speak with them. It’s very helpful for speaking. We can talk to each other about anything, ask for help with emails or anything else. When some friends came to Newcastle, I told them to come, three or four new friends coming. All learners know about each other. When new learners come, the older learners know they’re new. They make them feel welcome, tell them about Newcastle and classes and N.E.S.T and other services.

How would you describe being a part of N.E.S.T?

Honestly, N.E.S.T is one of the best parts of my week, not only because you’re contributing to a great initiative, but the friends you make and the rapport you build with the learners is something that’s difficult to find elsewhere. I like how regardless of what skills you have there’s always a way to fit it in with N.E.S.T and contribute in some way or another. I’m glad I stumbled across N.E.S.T at university because it has by far been one of the best experiences I’ve had whilst being here and hope to continue my work with them as a doctor.

What have you learnt whilst being at N.E.S.T?

I learnt a lot. I learnt and improved in leadership skills, communication, teamwork. I developed my self-awareness in being aware of any assumptions or prior judgements that I might have with co-workers and volunteering with refugees/asylum seekers. I learnt how to communicate with different people and not to take things personally. I learnt to set aside logistical challenges, to recognise that they were the shared problem of the group rather than my problem individually. I learnt how and when to ask for help and to share responsibility.