Secgul Dilek

Secgul Dilek moved from Turkey to Exmouth in October 2023 with her two sons aged 6 and 16. Her husband came to the town three years ago to work as a carpenter.

Improving her English skills was the goal for Secgul, 36, who knew it was important to be able to work and join in with the community in East Devon.

“I have been attending the conversation class at the library in Exmouth for about 10 months. I found this place on the advice of a friend. Our volunteer teachers and library staff are very kind and helpful. In our class in the library we often learn by speaking, sometimes are shown grammar and sometimes do writing. Our teachers bring various materials to help us.

“I know that the first condition for living in a new country is to learn the language. And thanks to this class, my English improved and my self-confidence increased. I have now been able to get a job at Opendoor Exmouth as kitchen assistant, a Christian charity that works to combat isolation and poverty, help people develop skills, and promotes positive mental health and wellbeing. I worked in a kitchen before, and I do all the jobs that need doing. It is great to work in such a wonderful institution.

“I am very happy. I am very hopeful to realize my other dreams in the future. I would like to thank the library staff and volunteer teachers very much.”