Sadiya Abbosova - English FL teacher, New Namangan District Specialized School, Namanga
C5+O.N.E. Ed. When I first saw the announcement to apply for this program, I immediately felt it was a great opportunity. But now, as a participant, this word means much more to me.
At 21, I am the youngest participant from Uzbekistan - and one of the luckiest as well. I had the chance to gain this professional development at the very early stages of my career. C5+O.N.E. Ed. showed me teaching from a whole new perspective. More specifically, I learned to be a facilitator rather than just a teacher. Now, being a facilitator feels more open, tolerant, and innovative than being a “teacher,” which sometimes carries a more traditional meaning.
The program focused on CLT (Communicative Language Teaching). Our instructors used this approach with us, so I experienced it more in practice than in theory. I had never been taught this way before, so using such an approach with my students never even crossed my mind. But now, I know how to conduct lessons with a student-centered approach.
I also learned the importance of considering each student’s personality, their needs, and learning styles, as well as the role of communication - not only with teachers but also with peers. Another big skill I gained was giving constructive feedback. This taught me to be careful and intentional with my words to students. Grouping students, doing warm-ups, and using team-building activities are special techniques I now feel confident to apply in my classes.
Another great aspect of the program was the instructors. We had 18 TESOL experts from 7 different countries, and I was lucky to have 4 of them as my instructors. Four instructors, from four different countries, each with their own experience and approach - and I learned something valuable from each. From Nico (Nicolás Tamburini - Chile), I learned how to balance being demanding with humor, so students don’t feel too relaxed. From Kasia (Katarzyna Artemiuk - Poland), I learned how to communicate with students openly. From Jill (Jill Ann Neuendorf - USA) and Marbella (Marbella Joan Trejo - USA), I learned what it means to be dedicated to teaching and to do it with love. It was so inspiring to see how many teachers are true experts in their profession and how much love they put into their work. I could feel that energy.
Networking was another huge advantage of the program. It brought together teachers up to the age of 40 from 5 different countries, each unique in their experience and knowledge. I truly valued this diversity. As one of the youngest, I learned so much from others, but I also believe more experienced teachers found fresh perspectives from us as well. I made so many connections and friendships. Meeting people from other countries helped me become more open-minded - and that’s what made the program unique. The people. Both participants and instructors.
This initiative wasn’t only about career development. I grew as a person too. I became more sociable, supportive, and confident. I also had something to learn from each of my Homeroom participants (the morning group). It was such good fortune that Almaty was chosen as the offline training location - a city of natural beauty, modern facilities, and innovation.
When I returned home, I organized an Economics and Business English session at the American Corner in Namangan. I tried to implement every single lesson I had learned in Almaty, and the feedback was amazingly positive. The participants even requested more sessions like this, where I used CLT. This already shows how useful and impactful the program is.
I can’t thank enough the people who created this astonishing program. The ones who thought of teachers and their need for career growth aligned with current times and challenges. The investors, who may think they only funded a program, but in reality, planted seeds of continuous learning in every participant. The administration, who carefully designed the schedule. The supportive instructors, and the wonderful Dr. Kara for the immense work they have done.
Before, I wasn’t always proud to say I am an English teacher (maybe because there are so many English teachers in Uzbekistan). But now, after being part of C5+O.N.E. Ed., especially after Phase 2 in Almaty, I say it with pride. Because there is nothing more wonderful than programs like this, which truly care about us and our career advancement. It’s just one program, but it has brought so much life-changing experience that even this story is not enough to capture it all.
Sadiya Abbosova
Uzbekistan
