Sean's Lao journey
In the heart of every Lao learner is a story. A story of connection, heritage, and the joy of rediscovering one's roots. Today, we're shining a spotlight on one of our cherished students, Sean, and the incredible journey he’s embarked on to connect with his Lao roots.
How did you learn Lao before Lao English School?
Relatives, instagram, and iPhone apps.
What inspired you to learn Lao?
Originally as a surprise gift to my Mother by being able to connect in her native language, but now it has become a part of my own journey of reconnecting with and honoring my heritage.
How did Lao English School support you?
Initially it sort of "unlocked" a part of my brain that hadn't been used in years. I remember growing up and hearing a lot of these words and phrases in my Grandparent's home as a child, and with Ginie's help I was refamiliarized with them and eventually using them in conversation! Lao English School has helped me sort of both reawaken a part of myself that I drifted a bit away from due to trying to navigate being both Lao and American while also teaching me new vocabulary and ways to express myself that I did not learn before.
Learning Lao makes me feel…
Proud.
Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to new Lao learners?
To not be intimidated or feel guilty because there are many other Lao people just like myself who want to learn the language and support others who want to as well. And you never know, you might run into one of them in real life, our community can be delightfully small. :)
Is there anything else you’d like to tell those reading your story?
This has been one of the coolest things I have done both for myself and for my family. I am thankful to have something that is both fulfilling to myself and to my Mother. Having her notice my improvement with every week passing is going to be a very cherished memory and it will only create more moving forward in life!
Stories like Sean's are what make our mission at Lao English School so rewarding. Khobjai der for sharing your story and allowing us to get to know you! We hope that Sean’s story serves as an inspiration for you to start your Lao journey. You could be the next inspiring success story for other Lao learners.