Language learning has been a lifelong journey for me. I grew up in India, a nation of many languages. Did you know that 15 of India’s languages are printed on its currency notes? So far, I’ve spoken six or seven languages in my life. Some have come and gone, but one important factor remains: my attitude.
Early language learning
At first, languages came quite naturally to me. I was able to acquire them easily because I was surrounded by them and not shy to make mistakes. I grew up in a bilingual household, with my mother speaking Tamil and my father speaking Malayalam. At school, while my formal instruction in English (grammar and all) began in kindergarten, I spoke a few local languages on the playground.
As I got older, and my family moved around, I began learning Hindi, which has a completely different script. I had to work hard at it. I learned how to write it in school, and at home I watched television in Hindi. But I didn’t learn Hindi only for my future job prospects; I did it for the richness of the culture and to better communicate and adapt. To this day, I still read books in Hindi so that I can maintain it.
Learning French in Canada
At the age of 25, I moved to Canada to earn my master’s degree. Since I already spoke English, my parents gently nudged me to begin learning French, so that I could fully experience my new home country, which is bilingual. Once I started working full time in the private sector, I took evening classes three times a week at a local college. I started with the basics: the verbs être and avoir. It wasn’t easy. I struggled, but I persevered. I wrote down the pronunciations of the words in Hindi to ensure accuracy. I watched television and read books in French (with a dictionary by my side, at first). I made mistakes, lots of them, but I didn’t let that stop me.
Again, it was my attitude that kept me going. No one was forcing me to learn French, and I didn’t require it for my job in the private sector. I did it to expand my horizons and deepen my integration into Canadian society. Today, I only read the news in French. When I receive bilingual communications, I read them in French. I watch films and read novels in French. And I also register for all training in French, irrespective of the subject matter. Sometimes I still need the dictionary, but these days it’s only for about 5% to 10% of what I take in.
Benefits of language learning
Some view having to learn both of Canada’s official languages as a burden, but with the right attitude that “burden” becomes an opportunity! It can feel like swimming against the current, but that effort is necessary. And I’ve learned a secret: the more languages you learn, the easier it gets. What’s more, the self-motivation you develop can become a source of pride in itself.
In 2007, I earned the advanced proficiency level for my spoken French on the government test. This opened the door to my current position. Without this level of proficiency, I could not (and in my opinion, should not) have been able to take on this role.
And not only are official languages important for one’s career development, but they’re also the first step toward a more inclusive Canada. Quite simply put: inclusion begins with bilingualism. And in the beginning, for inclusion to become natural, it needs to be deliberate. Openness toward bilingualism leads to an openness toward diversity as a whole.
Technology and language learning
With new advancements in technology and especially AI, learning your second official language will become easier. Imagine being able to have a conversation with interactive technology, without worrying about making errors or feeling embarrassed. Another advantage is that the technology will be able to correct and explain your mistakes, further deepening your learning.
I’m excited about what’s to come and what’s already happening today.
The future of bilingualism in Canada
Young people in Canada today have two distinct advantages: their ease with using technology and the opportunity to learn a second language when they’re young. If they can leverage these two advantages and add the right attitude, they’ll thrive in both of Canada’s official languages and perhaps acquire even more languages! But being young is not essential. I learned French in my 30s. Regardless of age, the right attitude, commitment and a little technology can help lead us to a more bilingual, inclusive and diverse Canada.
To learn more about the Golden Quill, visit The Golden Quill: An initiative of the Our Languages blog (opens in new tab).
