The writer of the self learning book "Talk to me in Lebanese " with 12 years of experience in teaching Arabic for non-Arabic speakers. A fun inquiry based learning method!

Find out more about Lena

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I speak Arabic fluently because it is part of my origins. Growing up, Arabic was always a significant part of my life and culture. However, my passion for teaching the language and my deepening understanding of its beauty also made me want to master it even more. I became inspired to explore its depth and nuances to help others experience the same connection to the language.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  I believe the historical figure of Khalil Gibran is an excellent representation of the Arabic language and culture. As a poet and philosopher, his works beautifully blend the essence of Arabic language with universal themes, bringing Arab culture to the world stage with eloquence and emotion.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  One of my favorite traditions in Arabic culture is the concept of hospitality, which is beautifully expressed through the phrase 'Ahlan wa sahlan' (أهلاً وسهلاً), meaning 'Welcome' or 'You are at home.' It reflects the deep-rooted cultural value of making guests feel comfortable and valued. This phrase is more than just a greeting; it's a symbol of the warmth and generosity that are so integral to Arab culture.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Arabic matters to me because it's more than just a language-it's a connection to my heritage and culture. It allows me to communicate with millions of people, appreciate a rich history, and engage with the diverse Arab world. It gives me the ability to share ideas and stories across borders, which is incredibly fulfilling.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  One of the main challenges of learning Arabic is its script and pronunciation, which can be quite different from many other languages. However, practice and consistent exposure to the language can help tremendously. Using engaging materials, like my own textbooks, and immersive methods such as listening to Arabic music or watching movies, can make the learning process enjoyable and effective.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  I remember my first experience teaching Arabic to a group of non-native speakers. It was so rewarding to see them make progress from struggling with basic phrases to having full conversations. That moment made me realize the power of language in bridging cultures and how teaching can truly transform lives.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Traveling to different parts of the Arab world allowed me to understand how language evolves in different cultural contexts. Each region has its own dialects and expressions, and experiencing the diversity firsthand helped me appreciate the richness of Arabic.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What makes me a Superprof is my combination of academic qualifications and practical experience in teaching Arabic. I bring a deep understanding of both the language and its cultural nuances. My unique approach focuses on making learning Arabic engaging and accessible, with clear and effective methods that cater to different learning styles.