Wondering what happened to members of the first Beyond Borders cohort? Over the next few months we’ll be sharing some of the social ventures, and community impact projects led by this talented group of leaders. Read on to learn about Hola Everyone with Anabel Lopez.
Anabel Lopez, founder of Hola Everyone joined RADIUS’ Refugee Livelihood Lab to make a difference in her community. Through the Beyond Borders program, she explored how her passion for teaching Spanish and sharing Mexican culture could improve the lives of students, Mexican teachers and rural school communities in Oaxaca.
Anabel was raised by an Indigenous single mother. When Anabel´s mom was growing up, men worked to support their families and women took care of the home. At that time in rural Mexico, it was rare to see women studying beyond elementary school. Besides the complexity of obstacles she faced to leave town and go to college, Anabel’s mother—a brave woman, forged a path toward independence by continuing her education and, became a school teacher. Inspired by the example of her mother, Anabel forged her own path as an educator.
Once a Fulbright Spanish teaching assistant at South Dakota State University and a Spanish instructor at Portland State University, Anabel realized that regardless of the intensive Spanish lessons filled with grammar and vocabulary, speaking Spanish fluently is one of the most difficult tasks for most. Anabel witnessed hundreds of non Spanish native speakers wasting time (and money) but not gaining the ability to speak Spanish fluently. At Hola Everyone, Anabel’s mission is to provide learners around the globe with high quality, authentic Spanish instruction for real-life —just as if you lived in Mexico.
When students take Spanish classes with Hola Everyone they are helping families across North America learn Spanish for free. For many, access is limited by geographical and financial limitations. At Hola Everyone, for every ten paid students, one student pays nothing.
Free time at home? Learn Spanish! During the current global crisis (COVID-19), Hola Everyone will continue providing affordable online classes and provide free online Spanish resources. Plus, offer a free language exchange (English/Spanish) with a native speaker. This is one of the fastest ways to learn Spanish! Find a conversation partner here. You do not have to leave your home to expand your language skills. Why not go immersive? Spanish radio! Podcasts! Spanish movies!
If you’re interested in learning more, visit www.holaeveryone.com or email Anabel at info@holaeveryone.com.
