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Find out more about Romy

• Did you grow up speaking this language? Or were you inspired by a trip abroad, an individual or a certain aspect of the culture?

  I grew up speaking French, as it’s my native language. I was born and raised in Switzerland, so French has always been deeply connected to my identity.
  
  As for English, I truly strengthened my level during a three-month language stay in Liverpool. That experience allowed me to solidify my foundations and gain real confidence. It was also a very meaningful period in my life because I met my partner there — he’s English — and since then, English has become the language we speak daily.
  
  I’ve also had the chance to live in England, Thailand, New Zealand and Australia, which naturally helped me refine my English even more. Being immersed in different countries and cultures made the language feel alive and practical rather than academic.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language’s culture?

  For French culture, I would say Victor Hugo. He represents the depth, elegance and emotional richness of the French language.
  
  For English culture, Shakespeare is an obvious historical reference, but I also associate English culture with its global influence and adaptability. It’s a language that evolves constantly and connects people worldwide.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or expression in the language that you particularly like?

  In French, I love the expression “joie de vivre.” It reflects the beauty of appreciating simple pleasures and enjoying the present moment.
  
  In English, I really like the phrase “step out of your comfort zone.” It resonates with me because learning English and moving abroad required me to challenge myself and grow.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking French connects me to my roots, my emotions and my culture.
  
  Speaking English has completely transformed my life. It allowed me to live abroad, build meaningful relationships, and expand both personally and professionally. Since it’s also the language I speak daily with my partner, it has become an essential part of who I am today.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  For French, grammar and pronunciation can be challenging, especially verb conjugations and silent letters.
  
  For English, I think confidence is often the biggest obstacle. Many learners understand much more than they realize but hesitate to speak. Immersion, daily practice and accepting mistakes as part of the journey are key elements in progressing.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  During my stay in Liverpool, I remember how overwhelming it felt at the beginning to communicate only in English. At first, I was translating everything in my head. But after a few weeks, I noticed I started thinking directly in English. That was a turning point for me — it showed me how powerful immersion truly is.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Travel has played a major role in my English journey. Living in England gave me strong foundations, while experiences in Thailand, New Zealand and Australia exposed me to different accents, communication styles and cultural nuances.
  
  These experiences helped me become more adaptable, confident and fluent. English stopped being just a subject I learned — it became part of my daily life and personal growth.