Persian-language courses at Mímí are starting again.
Mími has added a young woman, Selin (Zahra) Mesbah, to its teaching staff. She teaches Icelandic to Persian and Farsi speakers. The course she teaches is Icelandic Level 1, which focuses on basic everyday vocabulary, comprehension and speaking practice. Students also receive training in reading and writing the Latin script and practise using digital solutions that are useful in daily life. A large proportion of the student body are refugees from Iran and Afghanistan who are making an effort to learn Icelandic and settle into a new life in Iceland.
Selin came to the country herself as a refugee from Afghanistan in 2012. She has worked as an interpreter and cultural mediator, using her experience to increase understanding and promote the better integration of refugees into Icelandic society.
Or as Selin, who is in fact always called Zahra, says herself:
„Through my own experience as a refugee, I have a good insight into the challenges that refugees and asylum seekers face, and I take pride in supporting them on their journey.". My aim is to promote positive change and to be a role model to others through my work and participation in community projects. I believe in the importance of diversity and solidarity, and I am constantly working to build a better and more just society for everyone.“
Zahra is a great role model for all refugees, and especially for young women. We at Mímí are delighted to welcome her to our teaching team and to be offering a specialised Icelandic course for Persian speakers again.
