In a recent interview, we had the pleasure of speaking with Armando, one of our dedicated ESOL students at Chatham Literacy.
According to his tutors, Sara Colaianni and Angela Privitere, Armando came from Cuenca, Ecuador to Chapel Hill with his family (wife Maria, Andres – 14, Nataly – 8, Daniel – 6) in the summer of 2022. He worked in the security area of a grocery store chain in Cuenca, and on his farm. He currently works at Governors Club in the Golf Course Grounds Area. His brother, the Chef at Governors Club, had expressed his disappointment that Armando had not tried to learn English before coming to the United States, so Sara and Angela promised to teach him English with Chatham Literacy’s help. Both tutors began instruction in February 2023 and started working with him as a team in March, 2023. He was a basic, basic beginner.
During our conversation, Armando’s enthusiasm for learning was evident. When asked if he enjoys the class, he responded with a heartfelt, “I love you. This is for me.” His commitment to improving his English skills is driven by both personal and professional goals.
Armando recently took a trip to Virginia Beach to support his son’s soccer team, CNC Soccer Club, during a tournament. He shared how proud he was when his son’s team emerged as champions. What made this experience even more special was Armando’s ability to communicate successfully with the desk clerk at the hotel during check-in. “It was the first time I checked in by myself,” he said, reflecting on how far he has come in his language journey.
Armando also expressed his joy in being able to engage with other parents at the event. “I understand English now,” he said, explaining how comfortable he felt conversing with other parents on the sidelines. This newfound confidence in his language skills allowed him to fully participate in this important moment in his son’s life.
His story is a testament to the impact of our ESOL program. Not only is he improving his language skills for work, but he’s also enhancing his ability to engage in his children’s activities and connect with his community.
As Armando continues his journey with Chatham Literacy, we’re excited to see how his improved English skills will open up new opportunities for him and his family. His story reminds us of the profound difference our programs make in the lives of our students, their families, and our community as a whole.