AnswerLanguage & Learning
Your First Conversation on TEEI Language
The short answer
your first conversation on TEEI Language is a free video call of 30, 45 or 60 minutes, depending on what you book, with a volunteer who speaks the language you are learning. It is a conversation, not a lesson and not a test. There is no curriculum and no grade. You talk about your own life, at your own level, and the volunteer keeps the conversation going.
The programme
On this page
The rest of this guide answers the questions people usually have before they press “book” for the first time.
Before the call
Who can book? You must be 18 or older and either from Ukraine or a woman from Latin America or the Caribbean.
What do I need? A computer, tablet or phone with a camera and a microphone, and an email address. The video room runs in your browser, so there is nothing to download. You do not need documents.
How do I choose a volunteer? Browse volunteer profiles for the language you want to practise and a time that suits you. Depending on the volunteer, you can book an available slot directly or send a session request.
Is my level good enough? Yes. You can start at any level. If you are not sure where you are in English, there is a free level test in Ukrainian (14 questions, about eight minutes). You do not need to take it before your first conversation.
Do I need to prepare? Not really. It helps to think of two or three things from your week: something you did, something that annoyed you, something you need to do soon. Ordinary life is exactly the vocabulary you will use.
During the call
The call lasts for the time you booked: 30, 45 or 60 minutes. A simple way to begin is with easy questions about each other. Silence is allowed. If you do not understand, say so, and ask them to say it again or more slowly. That is part of the practice, not a failure.
Some learners bring a real situation they are facing: a job interview, a call with a landlord, small talk at work. You can ask to practise exactly that. Others just want to talk. Both are fine.
The volunteer is a conversation partner, not a teacher. They will not give you homework or a mark. Their job is to listen, keep the conversation moving and help you find the words.
After the call
You can book another conversation, with the same volunteer or with someone new. The platform supports one-off sessions and requests for a regular weekly time. Choose a pace that works for you and your conversation partner.
TEEI Language is free. Nobody pays for a conversation, on either side.
Which languages?
Languages include English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish and Norwegian. Check volunteer profiles for the languages and times currently available.
You might also start with
Each of these stands on its own:
- Your first weeks with a Women Buddy Programme buddy
- Practising a language between conversations
- What a course certificate shows, and what it doesn’t
To book your first conversation, create your TEEI Language account. For English specifically, see free English speaking practice.