As of April 2018, it is estimated that more than 5.6 million refugees have fled Syria and more than 6 million people are displaced internally. Many of these refugees are well educated, experienced individuals. However, they face unemployment and lack of direction as they settle in a completely foreign environment.
NaTaKallam (“We Speak” in Arabic) connects language learners globally with displaced Syrian and Iraqi people over Skype to learn Arabic.
NaTaKallam Founder Aline Sara explains that the platform offers a “gainful income opportunity to displaced people who face restrictive labor policies in their country of resettlement.” Additional benefits include “creating conversations and bridging cultures today between countries, and between individuals who are far from conflict and those who live and breathe it.”
Natakallam provides a unique opportunity in an era of increasing division when the need to build community and enhance cultural understanding is critical. Sara stresses, “We want to show that refugees can contribute positively to society and should not be characterized as passive burdens dragging on public services.”
NaTakallam (“we speak” in Arabic) pairs Arabic-speaking displaced persons with learners around the world for language practice over Skype. The platform offers affordable, flexible, tailored Arabic practice with native speakers for language learners while also providing a valuable income source to displaced people mostly in Lebanon, but also in Turkey, Iraq, Egypt, France, Brazil, Italy and Germany.
Author: Bhok Thompson
Bhok Thompson is an “eco-tinkerer” who thrives at the intersection of sustainability, business, and cutting-edge technology. With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep fascination with renewable energy, Bhok has dedicated his career to developing innovative solutions that bridge environmental consciousness with profitability. A frequent contributor to Green Prophet, Bhok writes about futuristic green tech, urban sustainability, and the latest trends in eco-friendly startups. His passion for engineering meets his love for business as he mentors young entrepreneurs looking to create scalable, impact-driven companies. Beyond his work, Bhok is an avid collector of vintage mechanical watches, believing they represent an era of precision and craftsmanship that modern technology often overlooks. Reach out: [email protected]
