A sports-loving group in Ho Chi Minh City has launched free language classes aimed at creating a friendly learning environment, allowing participants to access new languages without any financial burden.

The classes not only help attendees improve their language skills but also serve as a space for networking and connecting with others who share a passion for sports.

From sports to languages

Founded in 2017, Viet Sportmates Group (VSG) began as a gathering place for sports enthusiasts, with a focus on promoting a healthy and friendly sports environment. 

The group has organized various activities, including swimming, dancing, and badminton, to provide opportunities for physical fitness and social interaction.

VSG’s founder explained that the group is not a formal organization and does not have a leader, strict rules, or a fixed budget. 

Instead, VSG operates on the principles of healthy sportsmanship, sharing, and connecting people who love physical activity, while creating opportunities for exchanging knowledge and life skills.

As the group grew, they identified a strong demand for language learning within the community. 

In response, VSG expanded its activities to include free language classes alongside its sports offerings.

Free classes for all

VSG’s language classes are held at inD Cafe, located at 229 Ly Thai To Street in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, with a fixed schedule: Monday for Spanish, Friday for beginner and basic Thai, Saturday for English, and Sunday for beginner and specialized Chinese classes. 

The group plans to add French classes in April.

A unique aspect of these classes is that they are run on a volunteer basis. 

Instructors, who are fluent in the language and possess teaching skills, offer their time freely. 

Students are only required to cover the cost of their drinks at the café.

Classes take place in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with participants of all ages.

The curriculum is flexible, with some classes using prepared materials, while others are self-prepared or focused on specific themes. 

Currently, VSG has seven volunteer instructors, with the Thai language class attracting the most students.

“Convincing people to teach wasn’t difficult, as everyone shares a common desire to help each other with language learning and communication,” said VSG’s founder.

Le Thanh, the Thai language instructor, initially hesitated to teach due to a lack of formal training in teaching skills. 

However, over time, he became accustomed to the role. 

“I enjoy teaching,” Thanh shared.

“I believe that sharing language knowledge can help someone in their life.”

An effective language exchange space

Most students focus on pronunciation and learning simple conversational phrases. 

When mistakes are made, there is no embarrassment or pressure; instead, students are encouraged and supported by their peers.

In addition to language skills, VSG’s classes also offer insights into cultural aspects, with guidance from native speakers.

Huynh Quang Dang Khoa, a 23-year-old from Ho Chi Minh City, began attending VSG’s Thai and Chinese language classes in August 2024. 

He chose VSG because the classes were free and suited his financial situation, as he could not afford formal courses.

Although free, Khoa emphasized the high quality of the lessons, with passionate and dedicated instructors. 

“Thanks to the teachers’ dedication, I can now read basic Thai after completing the beginner class,” Khoa shared.

“From zero knowledge, I can read and write a language that is considered quite difficult.”

Similarly, Nguyen Hang, 43, from Ho Chi Minh City, joined the Thai class in March 2024 due to her love for the language. 

One of the reasons she stays with the program is the supportive, friendly environment where everyone is ready to assist, even after class. 

As a result, her Thai language skills have significantly improved.

The encouragement, support, and open-mindedness in VSG’s classes have turned them into a small community, where each learning session is not just about gaining knowledge but also about experiencing something enriching and enjoyable.

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