Faces of Na'atik: Angel

For many people, learning a new language can seem like a challenge, or even something boring. However, at Na’atik, this experience becomes dynamic and fun. Let’s get to know more about Angel’s journey, who has been studying English at Na’atik for 3 years and shared with us what his experience at the school has been like and what he enjoys most about learning another language.

Angel first learned about the school through one of his cousins, who was already taking classes here. From the moment his parents enrolled him, his expectations were clear: to learn a lot. Over time, not only has he expanded his knowledge of the language, but he has also found new motivations to keep learning, such as traveling to countries like the United States, Canada, and Italy, as well as his interest in learning new languages in the future.

His experience at Na’atik has been positive. “The classes aren’t very traditional, and that has helped me learn more,” he says. He describes the lessons as fun and dynamic, which has kept him interested in continuing to learn and improve his English communication skills.

He also mentions that extra activities such as cultural exchanges and workshops have been key to his progress. These spaces have allowed him to review what he has learned in class, improve his communication skills, and most importantly, gradually overcome his fear of speaking in front of others in English. Through speaking exercises and presentations, he has gained confidence and become more comfortable expressing himself in the language.

Angel now recognizes that he can identify pronouns and objects, and form sentences, which allows him to communicate more effectively. He has also noticed changes in his daily life: he can now better understand song lyrics from artists he likes, such as Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, and he can even help classmates become more interested in learning English.

Outside the classroom, he has found ways to practice through videos, songs, and video games, as well as by using apps like Duolingo. Although he admits that learning the language was difficult at first, he has noticed clear progress in his skills and remains motivated to keep improving.

For those who are considering starting to learn English at Na’atik, he recommends making time in their schedule and giving it a try. He has shared his experience with a friend, encouraging him to enroll, as he believes his learning process at Na’atik has been both useful and enjoyable.

Finally, he highlights the importance of English today. Whether for studying, traveling, or communicating with people from other parts of the world, he sees it as an essential tool for self-expression. That’s why his goal is to continue learning until he becomes fluent, and in the future, to take on new languages such as Italian or French.

Lastly, Angel added: “Having interactive activities instead of just following a book makes learning more fun, and I enjoy it more. Plus, the teachers are very kind. I’ve liked and enjoyed learning the language. Since elementary school I’ve been taking classes here, and that really helped me understand my English classes better when I started middle school.”

Thank you, Angel, for taking the time to speak with us and share your experience studying at Na’atik. We hope you continue enjoying the process and achieve your learning goals, and that it remains fun and interesting for you.

To learn more about Na’atik’s English language program for local and Indigenous students in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, visit our Impact Page. We are only able to provide this much needed program thanks to the support of generous donors and the funds raised from our award winning Maya and Spanish Immersion Program. If you would like to support our mission please consider donating today or take a look at our immersion programs and online class packages.