Ben
Hello!
Hi, I’m Ben! I currently live in Asuncion, Paraguay. I’m a Canadian teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching both online and in the classroom. I am from the beautiful region of Muskoka, Ontario, where I enjoy ice hockey, fishing, hunting, scuba diving, and the great outdoors. I am lucky to work with many wonderful students from Latin America, Japan, and China, helping guide and support them as they start their new lives in Canada.🍁🥰🙏 My teaching journey began in 2015 after graduating with a double major from Saint Mary's University in Halifax. A solo 12,000 km motorcycle adventure through Australia sparked my passion for education. Following that experience, I moved to Vietnam, where I earned a 120+ hour TEFL Certificate from Fort Hays State University.
I began my teaching career at the Center for Foreign Affairs and International Languages (CEFALT) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where I had the privilege of teaching students from a wide variety of backgrounds and skill levels. It was here that I not only honed my teaching skills but also developed a deep appreciation for the power of language to connect people across cultures. During this time, I also worked as a freelance writer for Vietnam's largest newspaper, Tuoi Tre, where I contributed articles in both English and Vietnamese, further immersing myself in the local culture and language. Following my time in Vietnam, I embraced the opportunity to live and work in different parts of the world, including Germany, where I spent two years during the pandemic. My love for exploring new places led me to travel extensively through Mexico and Guatemala, where I immersed myself in the vibrant cultures, cuisines, and natural beauty of each region. Having lived in five different countries and visited more than 40, my travels have given me a unique perspective on life and learning, which I now bring to my role as a full-time online teacher. Beyond teaching, I have a rich background as a professional chef, having cooked in high-end restaurants throughout Canada, Australia, Southeast Asia, and Europe for over 15 years. My passion for cooking is intertwined with my love for the outdoors and nature, whether it’s preparing fresh-caught fish after a day on the water or experimenting with wild game after a hunting trip. I’m an avid fisherman and hunter, and there's nothing quite like the serenity of fishing on a quiet lake or the thrill of a hunting expedition in the wilderness. Being surrounded by nature, whether in the deep woods of Muskoka or the expansive lakes of Ontario, fuels my passion for the outdoors and my appreciation for the world around me. Traveling has been a cornerstone of my life, not just for the adventure but for the profound cultural experiences and personal growth it offers. I’ve learned the art of adaptability through these experiences, whether scuba diving in Australia’s coral reefs or motorcycling through remote parts of Southeast Asia. Each new environment has taught me something valuable that I incorporate into my teaching methods today. Above all, my passion for teaching is driven by my desire to share the knowledge and experiences I’ve gathered from around the world. Whether it's teaching a lesson infused with cultural anecdotes, or encouraging students to embrace the unknown and push their boundaries, I apply my diverse experiences to make learning both engaging and meaningful. My goal as a teacher is not just to impart language skills but to open up new worlds for my students, just as travel and exploration have done for me.
About
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As you can see, I have a unique background that has helped me develop a teaching style that is engaging, informative, and enjoyable for my students. My intermediate fluency in Vietnamese, German, Spanish, Portuguese and French has allowed me to connect with students from a multitude of diverse backgrounds. I often incorporate my world of experience in different fields, including my extensive culinary background, into my teaching methods. I always strive to create a special bond with my students that enables them to make meaningful progress in their language learning journey. My experience has taught me that the most important part of this bond is when people tell me they are happy with the progress they are making. I take great pride in helping my students achieve their goals, whether it is improving their speaking, writing, or listening skills. I tailor my approach to meet their specific learning abilities and expectations. Finally, I am certified in First Aid/CPR and Open Water Scuba Diving, reflecting my dedication to safety and my willingness to take on new challenges. My goal is to continue teaching online and building my career by helping students from all walks of life strive for success. I am excited to get started and to help you achieve your language learning goals! Adults only, please.