Allen Smith is a long-time volunteer who has been involved with the Centre for eight years. He taught English Conversation Group Classes for many years, and for the past six years, has helped many newcomers prepare for the Manitoba Class 5 Knowledge Test to obtain their driver’s license. In addition to his volunteer work at the Centre, Allen teaches English online to learners from around the world, in countries such as Brazil, China and Vietnam to name a few.

As a CTESL (Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language) teacher, his teaching style reflects years of experience. Working with newcomers with different levels of English can be a challenge, but Allen is skilled at breaking down information into simpler concepts, so that students are able to understand and participate regardless of their language level.

A welcoming presence in the classroom, his teaching environment reflects his passion for learning about and meeting people from different places and cultures. When the Centre transitioned to online services in 2020 due to the pandemic, Allen continued to teach Driver’s Education Classes from his home office, decorated with flags and souvenirs from different countries, and the Canadian flag prominently displayed. His office décor has turned out to be the perfect icebreaker and rapport-builder, as students would sometimes initiate conversation after spotting an item from their home country.

It takes a team of volunteers to help the Centre deliver programs and services to our clients, and people like Allen Smith are instrumental in our success and that of the many newcomers who we serve. Thank you, Allen! We appreciate you!