An ESOL learner at Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE) is using her growing confidence and English language skills to support others after securing a volunteer role with the Refugee Council.
Zeena Samara, who is currently studying English at Level 1, first joined Hull Training and Adult Education in 2023. Since then, she has made significant progress in her language skills, become more involved in her local community and gained valuable experience through volunteering.
Zeena chose to study at HTAE because of its welcoming environment and convenient central location.
"I chose Hull Training because it felt like a comfortable and supportive place to study. Also, all the staff were nice and friendly."
Pictured: A Refugee Week event at Hull Truck Theatre's Conversation Café. Clients created artwork around the theme of Courage, displayed their work, and spoke with visitors in a Human Library-style experience. Attendees were also invited to share what makes them feel strong. Zeena helped support the event.
Since joining the course, Zeena has worked hard to develop her English language skills and build her confidence.
"HTAE helped me regain my confidence and become more involved in the English community. I met many kind and friendly students there, and my English improved a lot. I can now speak in full sentences."
As part of HTAE's Friday Community Groups, which Zeena attended, learners are introduced to local organisations and opportunities that can help them become more involved in their communities. Following a visit from the Refugee Council, Zeena applied for a volunteering opportunity and was successfully offered a role.
Today, she volunteers at the Refugee Council's drop-in reception, where she welcomes visitors, helps people access support and directs them to the appropriate member of staff.
"I welcome people when they arrive, ask them what they need, and direct them to the right member of staff."
The experience has provided Zeena with an opportunity to put her communication skills into practice while continuing to develop personally and professionally.
"It helps me develop new skills, improve my communication and build confidence, which will help me achieve my future goals."
Her contribution has made a strong impression on the Refugee Council team.
Eleanor Goodyear from the Refugee Council praised Zeena's efforts, describing her as "a brilliant find" and highlighting the positive impact she has made through her volunteering role.
Pictured: Staff and volunteers celebrating Volunteers' Week 2026 and the positive impact volunteering has on our communities.
Looking to the future, Zeena hopes to continue developing her skills and building a successful career.
"My future goal is to build a successful career, become independent, have a stable income, and work in a job that helps me grow as a person and develop my personality."
Zeena's journey demonstrates how learning English can open doors to new opportunities, helping learners build confidence, connect with their communities, and take positive steps towards their future goals.
Through her dedication to both her studies and volunteering, Zeena is already making a valuable contribution to the local community while continuing to develop the skills and experience that will support her future success.
Find Out More About Our ESOL Courses
If English is not your first language and you'd like to improve your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, our ESOL courses can help. We offer flexible classes for adults of all levels, from complete beginners to Level 1, taught by experienced specialist tutors.
Visit https://hcctraining.ac.uk/esol to learn more and book your initial assessment.