I grew up hearing Twi everywhere. I understood it. I just couldn't speak it. This is how that changed.
“I Could Understand Twi, But I Couldn't Speak It”
My name's Vee. I'm a nursing student based in East London, and I'm half Ghanaian through my dad.
Growing up, Twi was always around me. At home, at family gatherings, in my community. I understood a lot of it. But speaking? That was a completely different story.
Why I finally decided to do something about it
I'd be in a conversation, follow everything being said, and still not be able to respond. That was the frustrating part. I wasn't a stranger to the language, I just couldn't use it.
I didn't want to just understand anymore. I wanted to actually be part of the conversation.
The beginning wasn't easy
Even with some understanding already there, speaking out loud felt completely different. I'd hesitate. Overthink. Second-guess my pronunciation before the words even came out.
But once I started practising, using small phrases, getting them wrong, trying again. Something shifted. My confidence started building slowly.
“I didn’t want to just understand anymore. I wanted to actually be part of the conversation.”
My experience with Teach Me Twi
Abigail has been so patient. She's created a space where I actually feel comfortable speaking, not just listening. For someone who spent years understanding Twi but staying quiet, that meant a lot.
And Obed checking in regularly, making sure everything's running well and that students feel supported. That made the whole experience feel like more than just a class.
What I'd say to anyone thinking about it
Just start. Especially if you're like me, you understand the language but struggle to actually speak it. That gap is exactly what Teach Me Twi is for.
Don't wait until you feel ready. If you want to feel more connected to your culture, go for it. It's worth it.
Start Your Twi Journey
Inspired by Venny’s story?
The next New Year New Twi experience is open for registration.
✔ Small group classes
✔ Native Ghanaian tutors
✔ Real speaking confidence
