Stephen Kirsch

NaTakallam

NaTakallam ("we speak" in Arabic) harnesses the digital economy to produce high-quality, curated language services delivered by refugees and their host communities. These services include online language teaching and tutoring, translation and virtual interpretation services, as well as cultural exchange sessions. For our tutors, translators, and speakers, NaTakallam provides training, mentorship, and a pathway to sustainable income during and after displacement and/or in the early stages of resettlement. For its 10,000+ unique users in 100+ countries, NaTakallam provides a highly sought after service, filled with social impact. To date, the social enterprise, which is disrupting the way we typically think of humanitarianism and international development, has provided $1,000,000+ in cash to over 200 employees from refugee and host communities worldwide. Along the way, NaTakallam fosters intercultural exchange and raises awareness around the daily challenges of life in or near conflict zones.Through its notable academic partnerships (with universities, including Columbia, Duke, Georgetown, Tufts, and Yale) and partnerships with organizations in the private and public sectors (such as the International Rescue Committee, Save the Children, Ben & Jerry's), NaTakallam has served 100+ organizational clients. While originally born to support Syrians teaching Arabic, NaTakallam's language sessions are now offered in 8 Arabic dialects, French (Congolese, Burundian, & Guinean), Persian (Farsi & Dari), Spanish (Venezuelan & Central American), Kurdish (Kurmanji) & Armenian (Eastern & Western).