There's a growing need for connection with cultures beyond one's own. Bahareh, a passionate language teacher and the founder of Bahareh Teaches Farsi, is bridging this gap by empowering learners to embrace the beauty of the Persian/Farsi language and culture. In an exclusive interview, Bahareh shared her journey from Tehran, Iran, to becoming a trailblazer in language education.
Cultural Roots and Academic Journey
Bahareh is from Tehran, Iran, where she completed her bachelor's and master’s degrees in English Translation. Later, she continued to Â鶹ÊÓƵ (KSU) for her Ph.D. in Translation Studies. Her doctoral dissertation, a study of translations of Persian literature, showcased her deep appreciation for her native language and literature.
During her time at KSU, Bahareh's commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding became evident. She volunteered to teach Farsi to KSU students for free, recognizing the lack of materials available for learners of conversational Farsi. This initiative laid the foundation for her future endeavors in language education.
Following her studies, Bahareh joined the ESL program at KSU, where she taught English as a Second Language, and later she started teaching a cross-cultural course for the Honor's College. During her time at KSU, Bahareh established the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Iranian Students Association and received multiple international student leadership awards for her work as the president of student organizations such as the Â鶹ÊÓƵ International Mentors. Her dedication to promoting cultural exchange and language learning continued to flourish, shaping her professional path, and inspiring her entrepreneurial spirit.
Empowering Learners Through Bahareh Teaches Farsi
Bahareh's journey took a pivotal turn when she noticed a gap in the market for Farsi learning materials tailored to conversational fluency. Drawing upon her experiences and insights, she embarked on a mission to create accessible resources for second and third-generation Iranians in the United States seeking to connect with their heritage, and for anyone who is interested in learning Farsi.
At the heart of Bahareh Teaches Farsi is a profound desire to empower learners to reclaim their cultural identity through language. Bahareh's teaching materials, including books, audio, and video resources, are meticulously crafted to demystify the complexities of Farsi script and pronunciation. By incorporating transliteration alongside Farsi script, she makes the spoken language more approachable for learners of all levels regardless of their familiarity with the writing system.
Bahareh's innovative approach extends beyond traditional teaching methods. Collaborating with her husband, a graphic designer, she introduced two charming characters in her books to make the learning process more fun and interactive. The story of the Kawaii-style Persian cats, Pishi and Pasha serve as relatable guides throughout her educational materials, fostering a sense of connection and familiarity for learners.
Looking Towards the Future
As Bahareh's impact continues to grow, she remains steadfast in her commitment to enriching the lives of her students. Her vision extends beyond individual learning materials, as she plans to develop comprehensive courses that complement her existing resources. By embracing technology and social media, she seeks to reach a broader audience and create immersive learning experiences.
Through Bahareh Teaches Farsi, Bahareh invites learners on a journey of cultural discovery and linguistic mastery. Her dedication to fostering meaningful connections and empowering individuals to embrace their heritage is a testament to the transformative power of language education.
Bahareh plans to release 10 books total, covering elementary to advance and is currently working on finishing the intermediate levels, books 5-6 and her book of verbs.
Advice for Aspiring Language Learners and Educators
Bahareh's journey offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career in language learning or teaching. She emphasizes the importance of making language learning a part of daily life and encourages learners to find joy in the process. For educators, she underscores the significance of empathy, adaptability, and a genuine connection with students from diverse backgrounds.
As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, Bahareh's story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Through her passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, she reminds us of the profound impact language can have in fostering understanding, empathy, and connection across cultures.
To learn more about Bahareh Teaches Farsi and embark on your own language learning journey, visit .