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Find out more about Roberta

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I am a native Italian speaker, having been born and raised in Italy, but I am also fluent in five languages, including English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and French. In addition, I studied Latin and Ancient Greek for five years during high school. I learned these languages at university and have lived in nine countries across Europe, Africa, North America, and East Asia. This extensive international experience has greatly contributed to my linguistic development. I am passionate about learning languages and exploring diverse cultures. With my multilingual background, I can support learners in approaching Italian or any other language I teach by offering cultural insights and drawing comparisons between their native language and the target language, particularly in terms of grammar and usage.


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


  While figures like Leonardo Da Vinci, Roberto Benigni, or Ludovico Einaudi come to mind, I would highlight Frederick II.
  Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily, epitomised Italian culture through his medieval influence. Of German origin, he ruled primarily from Sicily, fostering a vibrant cultural synthesis among Christians, Muslims, and Jews. His Palermo court became a beacon of learning, inspiring movements like the Scuola Siciliana, which shaped Italian literary traditions. Known as "Stupor Mundi" (Wonder of the World), Frederick's intellectual curiosity and legal reforms, such as the Constitutions of Melfi, modernised governance and echoed Italy's enduring legacy of innovation. Frederick's reign embodies the rich diversity and brilliance of Italian heritage, a precursor to the Renaissance itself.

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

  Yes, each of these languages and cultures has unique expressions and traditions that are deeply meaningful and reflect their cultural values.
  
  Italian:
  • Phrase: Dolce far niente, which translates to “the sweetness of doing nothing.” This phrase captures the Italian appreciation for enjoying the moment, relaxing, and taking pleasure in simply being, without the constant need for productivity. It reflects the Italian lifestyle's emphasis on balance, leisure, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
  • Tradition: The aperitivo culture. This pre-dinner ritual of enjoying a light drink and some snacks with friends or family is a beautiful tradition that highlights the importance of socialising, relaxation, and good conversation in Italian culture.
  
  Spanish:
  
  • Phrase: ¡Olé! This exclamation is used to express encouragement, approval, or admiration. It’s commonly heard in contexts like flamenco performances or bullfighting but is also used in everyday conversation to show enthusiasm or excitement. It embodies the Spanish spirit of passion and vibrancy.
  •Tradition: The siesta. While less common in modern urban areas, the tradition of taking a short nap or rest in the early afternoon is symbolic of the Spanish emphasis on balancing work and personal time and on living a life that prioritises well-being over constant busyness.
  
  Mandarin Chinese:
  
  • Phrase: 加油 (jiā yóu), which literally means “add oil.” It’s used to encourage someone, similar to saying, “Keep going” or “You can do it.” It reflects a supportive and motivating spirit, often used to cheer on friends, family, or even strangers in times of challenge or competition.
  • Tradition: The concept of guanxi (关系) refers to the importance of relationships and networks in personal and professional life. It reflects Chinese culture's value of building and maintaining connections, trust, and mutual support.
  
  Each of these expressions and traditions offers a glimpse into these regions' cultural values and ways of life, making them fascinating and unique aspects of their respective cultures.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Italian, Spanish, and Mandarin is significant to me for several reasons:
  
  Italian (Native Language):
  As a native language, Italian is more than just a means of communication—it’s deeply tied to my identity, upbringing, and cultural heritage. It connects me to my roots, my family, and the rich history and traditions of Italy. It’s the language of my first thoughts, emotions, and expressions, making it an integral part of who I am.
  
  Spanish (Bilingual):
  Being bilingual in Spanish opens up connections to a broad, diverse community of Spanish speakers worldwide. It allows me to engage with a rich tapestry of cultures, from Spain to Latin America, enhancing my ability to communicate with a broader audience. Speaking Spanish also enables me to appreciate and enjoy Spanish-speaking countries' literature, music, and traditions, enriching my personal and professional life. Plus, I love speaking Spanish with my cousins and friends.
  
  Mandarin:
  Speaking Mandarin is particularly meaningful as it connects me to friends and family who are native speakers. It allows me to build deeper relationships and engage more authentically with a different cultural perspective. Learning Mandarin also broadens my understanding of the world, as it offers insights into Chinese history, philosophy, and values. It’s a bridge that helps me relate to loved ones and better appreciate the diverse cultural background they come from.
  
  Speaking these languages is more than just a skill; it’s a way to connect with people, cultures, and parts of myself. It enhances my understanding and appreciation of different perspectives, making me more open-minded and culturally aware.

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

  The main difficulty in learning Spanish, English, and Chinese Mandarin lies in their unique linguistic challenges. Spanish learners often grapple with verb conjugations and grammatical gender, while English presents irregular spelling and pronunciation alongside a vast vocabulary. Mandarin poses tonal distinctions and character memorisation as significant hurdles. To facilitate learning, adopting a structured approach is key — immersive experiences like conversational practice with native speakers, engaging in media consumption such as films or books, and utilising language apps or courses tailored to these languages can greatly enhance proficiency. Regular practice, patience, and exposure to cultural contexts further deepen understanding and fluency. Living in the countries where these languages are spoken has been crucial for my learning process.

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

  Living in eight countries across Europe, Africa, and East Asia, as well as speaking five languages, enriched my language skills and cultural awareness. Immersing myself in such diverse linguistic and cultural contexts has refined my fluency and enhanced my understanding of the deeper, more nuanced aspects of communication.
  Speaking multiple languages has enabled me to connect deeply with people from various backgrounds, allowing me to grasp their perspectives, humour, and emotional expressions. For instance, understanding why certain things are considered amusing, sorrowful, or even rude in different cultures has been a fascinating journey. Each language offers a unique lens through which to see the world, and engaging with them has taught me to navigate cultural subtleties, fostering empathy and adaptability.
  Travelling has provided countless practical opportunities to use these languages, from negotiating prices in a local market to engaging in casual conversations with native speakers. These interactions have helped me build confidence, expand my vocabulary, and develop an intuitive understanding of cultural expressions that cannot be found in textbooks.
  Ultimately, my multilingual abilities and my love for travel have transformed how I engage with the world. Each new destination has been not just an adventure but a chance to grow linguistically and culturally, enriching my perspective on life.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What makes me a Superprof in language is my dedication to creating an engaging and personalised learning experience for each student. With a deep understanding of linguistic structures and cultural nuances, I adapt my teaching methods to suit individual needs and goals, ensuring effective and enjoyable learning. My ability to explain complex concepts clearly, combined with a passion for fostering curiosity and confidence, empowers students to excel. Moreover, I integrate immersive techniques such as conversational practice, multimedia resources, and real-world applications, making language acquisition both practical and inspiring.