June Update
Some news from last month! Ukrainian version here
We’ve hit 1,000 matches!
In June, we crossed a huge milestone: 1,000 student–mentor matches.
That’s 1,000 connections built through trust, care, and a shared belief that communication can open doors — whether you’re serving, studying, or just trying to get through another week. Every match represents real time, real effort, and real people showing up for each other.
To everyone who made this possible — our verifiers, educators, mentors, students, and platform team — thank you. Here’s to the next thousand.
In memory of Serhii
In May, we lost one of our own. Serhii, a Balakun student and a Ukrainian defender, was killed on the front line. He was learning English to build a future beyond this war — and helping others along the way.
The collection we started is still open, and we will keep it going until the end of the month. If you’d like to donate, leave a message please do so using the link, or if you want to contribute a translation in his honour, you can do so in the Writers’ Project Space. Thank you to everyone who already has.
Help wanted!
We’re growing, and we need more hands to keep up. Thanks to everyone who already responded about the request for support. We will get back to you all as soon.
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Other ways to help:
- Engagement Team — advocacy outreach, content creators — want to help with social media posts and campaigns? Find new opportunities to make noise about Balakun? Let us know.
- Verifiers in the U.S. — especially helpful for timezone coverage. You’re still welcome to apply.
- Experienced teachers & educators — we’re looking for help finding, making, or organising materials. Anyone with experience using Moodle would be great! Our students are especially asking for military English and medical English.
If any of that sounds like you (or someone you know), reach out.
New role: Volunteer Coordinator
We’ve just posted a new Volunteer Coordinator position on LinkedIn. If you like people, systems, and helping make things work behind the scenes — or know someone who does — please pass it on. Ideally you will be able to commit at least 5–10 hours per week.
Also, feel free to join our LinkedIn community to connect with our professional network.
Some good news
We have created a professional development Space.
Are you thinking about your next steps — after service, after studies, or just in life? We’ve created a Professional Development Space to help you move forward with confidence.
Here you can:
- Explore a pilot course on career development
- Connect with students and mentors in your field
- Help shape future opportunities like interview practice, career communication tips, and real advice from professionals
This Space is just the beginning — but it only works if you get involved. The more you engage, the more you’ll get out of it. Share your ideas, ask questions, and help us build something truly useful for you and your peers.
Take care!
