Case study: Farzana’s Journey – Finding Confidence and Community Through ESOL
All names have been changed along with some aspects of these case studies to maintain anonymity.
Farzana, a mother of three, joined our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes with Minerva Elite Performance (MEP) to improve her English and help her family settle into life in the UK. Her story highlights how impactful learning the language can be for refugees adjusting to new surroundings.
Women attending ESOL classes with MEP are also taking part in a variety of community activities, including our women’s walking trips. These opportunities help build connections and support their integration into the local community.
Managing a household and studying can be tough, but the flexibility of MEP’s online classes has allowed Farzana to keep up with her lessons without missing out on time with her children. This setup has made it possible for her to stay committed to learning, and she describes the classes as both “enjoyable and beneficial.” Now, Farzana uses the new vocabulary she learns every week in her day-to-day life, which has not only boosted her language skills but also made it easier to connect with her community.
One of the biggest shifts Farzana has noticed is in her confidence. Through the programme’s Citizenship class, she’s learned about the UK’s parliament, the NHS, and the education system, which has been especially useful as she navigates school and healthcare for her children. She feels more in control and able to speak up for her family’s needs, something that she could not have imagined before starting these classes.
The social aspect of the classes has also made a difference. Farzana explains that “learning in a good environment that everyone respects one another was very valuable and make me feel confident to talk to others”. Even the presence of male classmates, which she initially found a bit intimidating, has become a positive part of her experience, showing how a supportive environment can help break down barriers.
Farzana has become an advocate for the programme, often encouraging others to join. She values the kindness of the teachers and the friendships she has built, which create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. For Farzana, and for many others, this supportive community has been just as important as the lessons themselves in helping her feel at home in the UK.
Her experience is a powerful reminder of the role language plays in creating a sense of belonging and empowerment. Farzana’s journey shows that these classes are about so much more than just words—they are about building confidence, connections, and a path to a better future.