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A blog that looks behind the scenes at how we bring our mission to life, every day

Will Genova ‹ We are EF

At <a href="https://ef.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>, we learn from each other through collaboration and open conversations around the office, on campus, on the road, and virtually. I regularly have moments of connection, learning, and understanding with colleagues across the organization and around the world, even in a hybrid environment.
I recently attended a virtual panel discussion that reminded me why I am proud to work and learn alongside my fellow EFers. The discussion, hosted by LGBTQ+ @EF, was called “Beyond the Rainbow: A Panel on Queer Intersectionality.”
Team members from Austin, Boston, Denver, and Toronto shared how their queer identities go beyond their gender and sexual identities. Together we used this space to form community and learn from one another, and I left the session with joy and newly gained insights into others’ lived experiences.
In honor of Pride Month I want to share the common themes that arose from listening to my colleagues share their stories:
<h4>Queer identities are intersectional identities</h4>
The LGBTQ+ community is not a monolith. Each individual’s queer identities are impacted by their other identity markers — and vice versa. During the discussion, my colleagues shared how their gender and sexual identities intersected with their racial and ethnic identities, disability, and class. To put it simply –– identities are complex. Developing more language to describe complex ideas moves us closer to better understanding each other.
<h4>Coming out is a never-ending process</h4>
This concept of “coming out” is not one moment but a continuous process that LGBTQ+ community members do throughout their lives. And it is not done lightly — sometimes it’s quite calculative. Do I share with my manager I have a boyfriend if they ask about me having a girlfriend, or will they see me differently now? Do I correct my colleague for misgendering me, or will I come across as being difficult to work with?
Being “out” is not a luxury all members of the LGBTQ+ community have. Because of discrimination and prejudice, queer people must often navigate not knowing how they will be received if they are their authentic selves. That’s why it’s important not to make assumptions when meeting others. Recognize the power of words and use inclusive language to create spaces that are supportive for all.
<h4>It takes a community</h4>
I’m a firm believer that we do nothing in life alone. That is why community is so important, not just in queer life, but for everyone. Whether it’s your family (biological or chosen), coworkers, or friends –– surrounding oneself with support and understanding is crucial to take on each day and thrive. That said, finding community is one thing — fostering it is another and requires collective effort. In the workplace, we all must work to create spaces that further acceptance.
<h4>Queer joy is inspiring</h4>
When people can be their whole selves, they can celebrate who they are. However, when your identity has been historically marginalized it can be difficult to own your confidence. But doing so is incredibly empowering and a joyous act of self-love!
Ren M., Group Traveler Support Specialist with EF Go Ahead Tours, said it best, “Being queer gave me a second chance at life. My identity has brought me the joy and lightness of heart I had been missing while growing up. It was the best thing that has ever happened to me and allowed me to truly start living my life.”
These insights remind me why I am so proud to be queer. It also reminds me of the importance of trying to understand one another — because we open ourselves to be more inclusive when we see the world from another’s perspective. So whether it’s Pride or any other day of the year, let’s continue to work towards creating a more understanding and better world for all.

An EF team member reflects on a virtual panel discussion that reminded him why he is proud to work and learn alongside fellow EFers.

Beyond the rainbow: Reflecting on pride and intersectionality in the workplace - We are EF

Beyond the rainbow: Reflecting on pride and intersectionality in the workplace ‹ We are EF

Beyond the rainbow: Reflecting on pride and intersectionality in the workplace

Reflecting on pride and intersectionality in the workplace

Friendship. Excellence. Respect. These are core values of the Olympic Movement. Since Pierre de Coubertin founded the modern Olympic Games, the <a href="https://www.olympic.org/the-ioc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">International Olympic Committee</a> has encouraged people from all walks of life to work toward a better, more peaceful world. 
This mission is central to who we are/what we stand for at EF. Since 1988, we have been proud to work with the Olympics and its various Organizing Committees to design and deliver a range of educational solutions that promote understanding and connectedness at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. We have provided <a href="https://www.efset.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online language testing</a> for volunteers; designed digital curricula for students around sports and the critical role that Host Countries play; and <a href="https://englishlive.ef.com/en-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">taught professional language skills</a> to hundreds of thousands of judges, volunteers, athletes, dignitaries, and members of the Organizing Committees. We are honored to be appointed the trusted supplier of language and education to seven Olympic Games, past and future. 
While the Tokyo 2020 Games have been delayed a year, our excitement about serving as the Official Partner for Language Training Services will keep us motivated into summer 2021. In celebration of Olympic Day on June 23, we sat down with Hugo Bezerra, EF’s Managing Director of Olympic Affairs, to learn more about what we can expect from the upcoming Games in these unprecedented times: 
What has EF done so far in the build-up to the Tokyo? 
“Oh, so much! I think it’s important that we take a moment to look back at 2016, right before the Rio Games started – that’s when we had our first Tokyo 2020 staff join our online English training. Since then, we have trained 2,000 staff members and we currently have nearly 40,000 Tokyo 2020 volunteers studying English online with us. 
Our teachers in Japan have also reached out to over 50,000 students from different schools and universities around the country. These students had the unique opportunity to learn about the Olympic and Paralympic values in English.”
How has postponement of the Games impacted our partnership? 
“In many ways it hasn’t. Of course, all the logistical work we planned for this year had to be postponed to 2021, but luckily we had enough notice and the impact was minimal. Looking at the bright side, this postponement allows us to do more activities related to the Tokyo Games for one more year, something we are very excited about. 
That said, the postponement means we will only have five (!) months between the closing of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and the opening of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games. It will be tight, but we can do it!” 
What do we have planned now that the Olympics are another year away? 
“Many details are still being finalized by the Tokyo 2020 team. For now, we’re going ahead with our original plans, but we may have to follow the organizing committee’s directives to scale back a little in order to ensure the safety of all involved. An example of an activity that may be impacted is the torch relay—we will probably have to limit the number of fans cheering along the route. I’m excited to say we do still plan to have the EF House, where we welcome guests from all over the world; this part of the plan is still on, and we can’t wait to see what Japan, Tokyo and the Olympic Games have to offer.”

While the Tokyo 2020 Games have been delayed a year, we're excited about serving as the Official Partner for Language Training Services.

Olympic Day 2020: Preparing language learning and looking ahead to 2021 - We are EF

Olympic Day 2020: Preparing language learning and looking ahead to 2021 ‹ We are EF

Olympic Day 2020: Preparing language learning and looking ahead to 2021

Olympic day 2020

Dancing? At <a href="https://ef.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>, it’s part of our DNA, and has been since the very beginning. Every summer we choreograph a dance for students, staff and customers around the world. There’s nothing like it to bring people together, keep them moving, and spread positive vibes.
We passed a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gx7MaJvRhQ&t=3s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pink hula hoop</a> around the globe for Olympic Day to celebrate our role as the Official Language Training supplier to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We channeled our inner Freddie Mercury to cheer on our EF Pro Cycling riders at the 2019 Tour de France. For our 50th anniversary in 2015, we literally danced around the world together—and won a Guinness World Record for Most Nationalities (52!) in an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtyGhsCsJvE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Online Video Album of People Performing a Choreographed Dance</a>.
Although this year is a bit different than years past, we’re EF, and the dance must go on.
Curious about this years’ dance? See if you can get it down:
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PDngY15bF9g" width="560"></iframe>
Check out a brief history of what dancing means to us:
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dmRBHBeCLSw" width="560"></iframe>
No matter the occasion, we have a dance for it. And while right now we may not be able to meet on the dance floor, we still can come together (and get down) from the comfort of our homes.
Want to take part in our dancing tradition? Show us your moves and share them on Instagram or TikTok—use the hashtag #efhellodance and tag @ef on Instagram.

Dancing is part of our DNA and has been since the very beginning.

Dancing around the world: the history of the EF Hello Dance - We are EF

Dancing around the world: the history of the EF Hello Dance ‹ We are EF

Dancing around the world: the history of the EF Hello Dance

History of the ef hello dance

At <a href="https://www.ef.com/wwen/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>, we believe that the world is better when people try to understand one another. And what better way to have those moments than over food? No matter the country, no matter the language, exploring different food cultures brings us together as a community and allows us to discover the tasty side of tradition.
Step inside any of our <a href="https://www.ef.com/wwen/pg/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF International Language Campuses</a>, and you’ll witness firsthand a melting pot of different cultures and nationalities. Students come from all corners of the world to each campus to study the local language, experience a new culture, and learn from each other. Frequently, food is what brings them together. Whether it’s trying the local fare, teaching others about a traditional dish, or learning how to cook another, food is central in sparking countless conversations and friendships.
Every EF campus hosts activities that feature both must-have local eats and international delights thanks to our diverse students and staff eager to share their food culture. Let’s take a look and see what some of our campuses have been doing — but be warned! Don’t read on an empty stomach.
EF Brisbane
<img alt="EF Brisbane samples Aussie treats" class="aligncenter wp-image-17409 size-full" height="425" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brisbane-1-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brisbane-1-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brisbane-1-resized-300x224.jpg 300w" width="568">
Every week features Tasty Tuesday at EF Brisbane when students get to try Aussie treats that people Down Under typically enjoy. Fairy bread (white bread, butter, and sprinkles), Lamington fingers (small sponge cakes coated in chocolate and rolled in shredded coconut), and Chocolate Tim Tams (Australian brand of biscuits) are popular for those with a sweet tooth.
As for the famous Vegemite Australia is known for… let’s say it’s an acquired taste for some. And they sure do love it down in Brissy! Whatever your taste buds may crave, they’re always trying something new and tasty on this campus.
 
EF Seoul
<img alt="EF Seoul makes gimbap" class="aligncenter wp-image-17410 size-full" height="426" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Seoul-1-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Seoul-1-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Seoul-1-resized-300x225.jpg 300w" width="568">
A staple in Korean lunchboxes and picnics, gimbap (Korean seaweed rice roll) is the perfect on-the-go snack or meal. Its filling can contain various ingredients and can be vegetarian or vegan, so it’s a must-try treat for all.
At EF Seoul, students play a Korean quiz game to earn gimbap ingredients and make them together in class. That’s one class you don’t want to miss!
 
EF Brighton
<img alt="EF Brighton treats" class="aligncenter wp-image-17411 size-full" height="560" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brighton-1-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brighton-1-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Brighton-1-resized-300x296.jpg 300w" width="568">
“On your mark, get set, bake!” Taking the name from the popular television show, EF Brighton hosts its own Great British Bake Off with a twist. They turn the competition into a fundraiser for charity!
Students and staff compete in baking cakes, cookies, and pastries, and members of the school can then buy the baked goods with all proceeds going to charity. Students and staff get to vote on their favorite treats in three categories: taste, look, and creativity. The highest scoring baker is named the winner and chooses the charity to donate the money raised.
 
EF New York
<img alt="EF New York learns about different food cultures" class="aligncenter wp-image-17412 size-full" height="426" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/New-York-1-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/New-York-1-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/New-York-1-resized-300x225.jpg 300w" width="568">
Ever wanted to share a home-cooked meal with your classmates? How about your entire school? At EF New York, they make it possible!
‘Recipes from home’ is a collaboration with the dining hall on campus in which students work with the school’s Executive Chef to include cultural dishes on the menu. All students can try the dishes and learn more about other countries’ cuisine and food culture.
 
EF Auckland
<img alt="EF Auckland explores food from France" class="aligncenter wp-image-17413 size-full" height="760" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Auckland-2-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Auckland-2-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Auckland-2-resized-224x300.jpg 224w" width="568">
Guy Fieri once said, “Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together.”
EF Auckland hosts a mini-international food festival celebrating the different cultures that make their school so vibrant in the spirit of that quote. Students prepare a traditional dish from their home country for others to try. The entire school gets involved, including staff!
 
EF Sydney
Pavlova might sound Russian, but it is indeed an Australian (and New Zealand) dessert! Named after the Russian prima ballerina Anna Pavlova who toured Australia and New Zealand in the 1920s, the dessert inspired a chef after seeing Pavlova’s tutu.
Students at EF Sydney get a crash course in this mini-history lesson, and better yet, get to make mini-pavlovas themselves! This year, the school opted to take the cooking tutorial online and shared a TikTok how-to for making pavlova. Try it at home yourself!
 
EF Honolulu
<img alt="EF Honolulu samples different food cultures" class="aligncenter wp-image-17415 size-full" height="754" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Honolulu-1-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Honolulu-1-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Honolulu-1-resized-226x300.jpg 226w" width="568">
The most popular activity amongst students in EF Honolulu has to be the beach barbecue. With its authentic Hawaiian food and American barbecue staples, students experience a feast on a picturesque beach where they can relax on the sand or play beach volleyball in between bites.
 
EF Paris
<img alt="EF Paris' student bakers" class="aligncenter wp-image-17416 size-full" height="1011" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Paris-5-resized.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Paris-5-resized.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Paris-5-resized-169x300.jpg 169w" width="568">
Each week, EF Paris organizes ‘atelier de cuisine’ (a cooking workshop) for their students. Students learn to navigate their way through a kitchen, in French, while testing their baking skills on sablés (French butter cookies) and other baked goods.
With the amount of baking they do, many graduate as master French bakers!
 
EF Perth
EF Perth hosts an international food festival with students and staff representing their home countries. The festival starts with each student and staff member introducing their food before everyone gives it a try.
In their most recent festival, the school community served everything from Tiramisu from Swiss Italian students, to Bubble Tea from Taiwan, and Nasi Goreng from Indonesia.
 
EF Toronto
For students needing to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival due to COVID-19, EF Toronto offered a fun and engaging cooking competition. The staff left a selection of ingredients in the student’s rooms, and then the student had to come up with a dish that looked amazing and send it to EF staff.
EF Toronto shared the photos on social media channels for followers to vote.

No matter the country, exploring different food cultures brings us together and allows us to discover the tasty side of tradition.

No matter where you're going, exploring food culture brings us together as a community and allows us to discover the tasty side of tradition.

Eat your heart out: EF International Language Campuses explore different food cultures - We are EF

Eat your heart out: EF International Language Campuses explore different food cultures ‹ We are EF

Eat your heart out: EF International Language Campuses explore different food cultures

Different food cultures

At EF Education First, we want our staff to bring their full selves to work each day because our people make EF a such a special place to work.

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Will Genova

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