The remarkable journey of Alisa, a Chinese entrepreneur in Türkiye and participant in RET’s Turkish Language Classes who migrated from China to Türkiye 15 years ago…
Alisa, a 54-year-old entrepreneur who has been living in Türkiye, has overcome significant challenges to establish herself in the business world. Originally from China, she decided to relocate to Türkiye 15 years ago. Over the past 11 years, she has resided in Şanlıurfa due to work commitments, previously having lived in various cities, including Istanbul, Samsun, Denizli, and Izmir.
Dreaming of starting her own business in Türkiye, Alisa initially faced difficulties and had to return to China. Determined to succeed, she thoroughly researched Türkiye before returning, only to encounter language barriers hindering her progress. Despite attending language courses and private lessons, she struggled to find an effective one.
Taking matters into her own hands, Alisa began self-studying Turkish but encountered communication issues with her employees after establishing her first factory. Realizing the importance of proficient language skills, she sought out Turkish courses focused on conversational practice and discovered RET International’s Turkish language training within the framework of the “Turkish and English Language Learning Programme as a Tool for Empowerment and Social Cohesion” project.
“I am having fun, learning a new language, and making new friends.”
Impressed by RET’s innovative teaching methodology, Alisa remarked, “I have never seen such effective language education in any course I have taken in Türkiye before. The method is well thought out. We not only practice speaking extensively but also learn many new words. At 54 years old, I found great joy in using games as a tool for language learning. I am having fun, learning, and making new friends. During breaks, I engage in Turkish conversations with classmates, learning about their cultures from Iraq, Iran, and Syria while also sharing insights into Chinese culture. I am very happy to be here and grateful to RET for providing me with this opportunity.” She wrapped up the interview by stating her wish to remain engaged in the program as a guest participant even after finishing her current training.
