De Shan Huang
Learning for a new life
When De Shan Huang and his wife immigrated to Canada in December last year, he didn’t understand one word of English. “When people talked to me, I had no reaction because I didn’t know what they’re talking about."
“But everywhere I go, the TTC, shopping, medical appointments, I realized we need the language to join our new community.”
But it was not without reservations. “In China, I tried to study English but quit. My classmates were young – I could be their grandfather. They laughed when I was reading.”
It’s different at St. Stephen’s. Participants in the LINC English class are De Shan’s peers, not only in ability and age, but also in background and circumstances. With the help of his wife, the teacher and the other students, De Shan’s confidence continues to improve as does his English. “I feel much better now. I can have a simple conversation with others and especially my wife. I’m so happy now because we found a new meaningful life in Canada.”