Local, Fluent English Speakers Needed – Be a Conversation Partner for Women Learning English
Help Someone Find Their Voice in a New Place – Volunteer with Shama
At Shama, we see the power of a good conversation and we believe that when women feel safe, confident, and connected, whole communities thrive. As part of our work supporting ethnic women and families to settle and succeed in Aotearoa, we run weekly English Language Support Groups — and we’re looking for two volunteers to help make them shine.
Come Spend an Hour Making a Real Difference:
- Sessions run every Tuesday, 12:30–2:00 pm at our Hamilton Central space.
- You'll support women learning everyday English — chatting in small groups or one-on-one.
- Most are just starting out, and your patience and encouragement will go a long way.
- Tutors sometimes work one-on-one with individual learners, depending on who attends and what’s needed that day.
What You’ll Bring to the Table:
- Help women practice their English in a relaxed, encouraging setting.
- Prepare and lead simple language sessions or conversations
- You must be fluent in English and able to communicate clearly and confidently, as this role involves supporting others in learning the language.
Why It’s So Meaningful:
- The women you’ll meet are eager to learn, but often shy or unsure. Your presence gives them a safe space to try, to stumble, and to grow.
- You’ll share more than language, its about the sharing your local knowledge, your kindness, your stories.
- This isn’t just about English. It’s about helping someone feel seen, capable, and connected.
If that sounds like something you’d love to be part of, we’d love to meet you.
Please note: This role requires full fluency in English. You’ll be helping others learn the language, so it’s important you speak clearly, confidently, and naturally.
Requirements:
- Fluent, Clear Communicator – You speak English confidently and naturally. This is essential, as you’ll be guiding women who are still learning.
- Supportive and Purpose-Driven – You believe in what we’re doing. You’re motivated by helping women build confidence in their language skills and daily lives.
- Patient and Culturally Aware – You listen without judgment, embrace cultural differences, and understand that learning a new language takes time and encouragement.
- Local Knowledge – You know how life works in New Zealand and you’re keen to share those little everyday insights that help others feel like they belong.
Previous teaching experience is welcome but not required, what matters most is that you bring empathy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to support others in a meaningful way.
A Police background check is required for this role.
Time commitment:
- Weekly sessions: Tuesdays, 12:30pm–2:00pm
- Each session runs for at least 90 minutes
- Minimum commitment of 3 months
- You must be able to attend consistently each week — reliability builds trust and helps learners grow
Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below.
We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
Apply for this role:
