The Full Story
About Me
Welcome to Gert's Language Lab! I’m a dedicated educator, seasoned business coach, and global professional with over 15 years of experience mentoring teams and individuals across seven countries. Born in South Africa and now based in Germany, I combine my love for teaching, honed through years of coaching and language instruction, with innovative AI-enhanced methods to help you master English with confidence.
My Journey
My teaching journey began in 2008 in the turquoise waters of Koh Tao, Thailand, as a scuba diving instructor. Guiding nervous beginners to glide confidently among coral reefs sparked a lifelong passion for teaching. When a shy student beamed after her first dive, I knew I’d found my calling: helping others conquer fears and achieve breakthroughs.
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Over the following 15 years, I worked in seven countries, including South Africa, Thailand, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, teh UK and Germany, holding leadership roles at Cartus, SIRVA Relocation, and InterNationsGO!. Mentoring over 50 professionals across Europe, Asia, and Africa taught me to bridge cultural gaps and inspire confidence, skills I now use to simplify English for global learners. My Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Management from the Open University in London sharpened my knack for adapting to diverse perspectives, enriching my teaching.
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For the past year, I’ve taught English at Berlitz, one of the world’s premier language schools, both in-person and online from my base in Germany. From coaching beginners to master basic phrases to guiding professionals to ace presentations, I create personalized lessons that spark joy and progress. Using AI tools like speech recognition, I tailor each session to ensure students, like Julia who went from shy to fluent in six months, reach their goals.
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In 2024, I earned a 230-hour TEFL certification, deepening my expertise in English instruction. This training honed my ability to adapt lessons to diverse learners, whether teaching grammar or conversational fluency. My structured yet warm approach helps students feel supported, making every class a step toward confidence.
Why do I teach?
I teach English because it’s a bridge to new possibilities—whether you’re chasing career success, exploring the world, or building connections.
My mission is to ignite your passion for learning, fostering joy, consistent practice, and unshakable confidence. With 15 years of business experience, I make English practical, helping you craft emails that impress or conversations that flow.
In my vibrant, supportive classroom, every lesson is an adventure tailored to your goals. By leveraging AI tools for personalized feedback, I ensure you grow with every step.
I’m committed to guiding you to fluency with warmth and dedication, turning challenges into triumphs. Let’s unlock your potential together!
What do I bring?
My teaching journey began in 2008 in the turquoise waters of Koh Tao, Thailand, as a scuba diving instructor. Guiding nervous beginners to glide confidently among coral reefs sparked a lifelong passion for teaching. When a shy student beamed after her first dive, I knew I’d found my calling: helping others conquer fears and achieve breakthroughs.
​
Over the following 15 years, I worked in seven countries, including South Africa, Thailand, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, teh UK and Germany, holding leadership roles at Cartus, SIRVA Relocation, and InterNationsGO!. Mentoring over 50 professionals across Europe, Asia, and Africa taught me to bridge cultural gaps and inspire confidence, skills I now use to simplify English for global learners. My Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Management from the Open University in London sharpened my knack for adapting to diverse perspectives, enriching my teaching.
​
For the past year, I’ve taught English at Berlitz, one of the world’s premier language schools, both in-person and online from my base in Germany. From coaching beginners to master basic phrases to guiding professionals to ace presentations, I create personalized lessons that spark joy and progress. Using AI tools like speech recognition, I tailor each session to ensure students, like Julia who went from shy to fluent in six months, reach their goals.
​
In 2024, I earned a 230-hour TEFL certification, deepening my expertise in English instruction. This training honed my ability to adapt lessons to diverse learners, whether teaching grammar or conversational fluency. My structured yet warm approach helps students feel supported, making every class a step toward confidence.