Safavi Impact Institute launches Business English course for Ukrainian women, taught by a volunteer instructor

In today’s professional world, English is far more than just an additional skill. Many companies in Austria expect not only excellent German but also confident English communication, especially in international teams and in contact with clients, partners, and colleagues from abroad.

For many Ukrainian women who have been living in Austria since 2022, English is not a foreign language. Most of them speak it fluently, but in recent years they have focused almost entirely on learning German. Now they wish to refresh their English and use it more confidently in their professional lives in Austria.

To support them on this path, the Safavi Impact Institute has launched the Business English course “Business English for Career Success.” The course is aimed at women with at least a B2 level of English who wish to strengthen their language skills for professional growth. It focuses on communication skills that are essential in the workplace, including negotiation, professional email writing, report preparation, as well as presentation and conversation techniques.

The course is taught by Paul Bergen, who offers his time and expertise on a voluntary basis. Paul, a U.S. citizen, currently works at the U.S. Embassy in Vienna. He brings extensive experience in communication and public affairs and has taught English in Japan and Brazil, both in language schools and as a volunteer in educational programs for youth and adults. His passion for language and his commitment to supporting people in their professional restart shape the spirit of the course.

“I know how challenging it can be to work in a new language,” says Paul Bergen. “My goal is to help participants gain the confidence to use English naturally and effectively in their professional lives.”

The Business English course gives participants the opportunity to reactivate their language skills, strengthen their communication abilities, and approach their careers in Austria with renewed confidence.