March 27, 2025
Interviewer: Marcel Fisette
Marcel Fisette: In recognition of Francophonie Month, I’d like to welcome Andrew Terhoch and Samantha Wells. Thank you for joining us today. Could you each share your title, your role at St.Amant, and how long you’ve been with the organization?
Andrew Terhoch: My name is Andrew Terhoch, and I’m a Spiritual Health Practitioner with the St.Amant community. I’ve been in this role for just over seven years and with the organization for about 15 years. Before this role, I was here every day as a private practitioner and consultant, supporting therapy services, massage therapy, and the development of the mindful practice program for staff education.
Samantha Wells: My name is Samantha Wells. I’ve been in my role as a Receiver for about 10 months. However, I’ve moved through a few departments. I started out in the kitchen and worked there for about eight years before transferring to housekeeping. I’m now working on my 11th year with St.Amant.
MF: What inspired you to start learning French, and how has it impacted your role in a bilingual organization?
SW: I’ve always been fascinated by languages since I was young. There are so many ways to communicate, and encountering a language barrier can be very frustrating. I’ve always loved learning and speaking French, and honestly, I wish I had started using St.Amant’s French language services earlier. Learning French has opened my eyes to the importance of making an active offer.
AT: For me, working in a bilingual organization and living in Manitoba, there’s always a chance I’ll encounter people who speak French as their first language—whether it’s colleagues or individuals seeking support from St.Amant. My goal in learning French is to show respect for that part of someone’s identity. Even if I’m not fluent yet, making the active offer shows that I value their language and helps create a welcoming space. I’m also able to guide them toward further French resources if needed.
MF: What challenges have you faced while learning French, and what strategies have helped you improve?
AT: The biggest challenge for me is that I think in English and try to translate before I speak, which slows me down. It’s getting better, but translating in real time during conversations is difficult—especially when speaking with fluent speakers. To improve, I’ve been listening to French radio, using language apps like Duolingo, and preparing key phrases before meetings or
conversations. I’ve also benefited from one-on-one practice with Colette, which has boosted my confidence and encouraged me to engage with French-speaking colleagues more regularly.
SW: Conjugating verbs—whether in present, past, or future tense—has been a challenge. I’ve been working to improve by thinking in French as much as possible. I’ll say things out loud, sometimes even talking to my cats in French! I also try to switch my internal thoughts to French, listing out what I need to do for the day to practice. Like Andrew, I seek out conversations with bilingual and francophone colleagues, and I often send Teams messages in French to practice. I even speak to my husband in French sometimes—he doesn’t know a word, but I think he’s learning!
MF: Can you share a moment where using French made a difference in your interactions with colleagues, the people you support, or their families?
SW: Using French at work has shown me just how many of my colleagues speak it. The more I engage in French conversations, the more confident I feel. One memorable moment is when I started Teams-ing colleagues in French over Teams. Seeing the language written out helps me as a visual learner. I also ask Colette to spell out words for me, which helps solidify them in my mind.
AT: For me, a fun and meaningful experience has been texting with my neighbor, who is francophone. He was surprised and excited when I started communicating with him in French. It’s become a friendly addition to our neighborly relationship. In my role as a Spiritual Health Practitioner, I’ve also started incorporating some French phrases into meditation circles and collaborations with the Compassion Network. While I’m not quite ready to lead a full meditation session in French, I’m getting closer, and it’s meaningful to integrate a few words and phrases.
MF: How do you support your colleagues in their French learning journey, and why is bilingualism important to the services we provide?
SW: I try to support my colleagues by greeting them in French and encouraging them to respond in French without judgment. Learning a new language is hard, and I think creating a safe, supportive space is key. Bilingualism is important because it opens up pathways for better understanding and greater accessibility for those seeking services in their preferred language.
AT: I agree. I try to speak French with colleagues whenever possible—whether they’re fluent or just starting their learning journey like me. Taking opportunities to practice builds confidence and encourages others. Bilingualism is essential because many people seeking services at St.Amant prefer French as their first language. Making sure they feel comfortable and respected by offering services in French is both a commitment to our community and a legal responsibility.
MF: What advice would you give to colleagues who are hesitant about learning or using French at work?
AT: We all feel that hesitation at first, but mistakes are part of the learning journey. Letting go of the fear of judgment is key. I’ve always felt supported by my French-speaking colleagues, who are eager to help and encourage me. There are so many resources available—apps, YouTube videos, one-on-one practice with colleagues, or even joining Café de Partage. Learning happens faster than you might think when you engage regularly.
SW: My advice is simple: don’t hesitate—just go for it! Take the chance to improve your linguistic skills. I wish I had started years ago. Practicing French with colleagues is the quickest way to build confidence and expand vocabulary. Seeing different levels of growth in colleagues inspires me. There’s always someone to ask for help, and you can be that support for someone else as well.
MF: Thank you both for sharing your experiences and insights in recognition of Francophonie Month. I appreciate your time, and I hope you both have a great day!
