The founder of a unique organisation helping women from diverse backgrounds learn English is celebrating four successful years, during which hundreds of women have been empowered to improve their language skills.
English For Ladies, a London-based initiative that builds women’s confidence in speaking English, was launched in 2021 by Qendresa Bedra. The idea stemmed from Qendresa’s own experience of tackling language barriers after moving to the UK from Kosovo in 2006. Despite holding qualifications in English and a teaching degree, she found it difficult to engage in everyday conversations upon her arrival.
“When I first came to the UK, I felt lost,” Qendresa said. “I had studied English for years, but nothing prepared me for how different real-life conversations were. I could read and write, but I didn’t know how to respond when people spoke to me. I avoided speaking entirely and felt invisible. Some colleagues even thought I had a speech problem.”
Determined to overcome her challenges, Qendresa practised speaking with native English speakers as often as possible. Though the process was uncomfortable at times, it helped her develop her skills and embrace life in her new home.
“I realised that perfection wasn’t the goal—progress was,” she added. “The more I spoke, the more I grew, and I began to see mistakes as stepping stones, not failures.”
The inspiration for English For Ladies came when Qendresa returned to the UK in 2019 to access specialised medical care for her daughter. Seeing other women struggle with the same linguistic challenges she had once faced motivated her to take action.
“I saw so many women silenced by their fear of speaking English,” she explained. “It reminded me of how isolating it can be. I knew I had to do something to help.”
In 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Qendresa launched English For Ladies. Despite managing her daughter’s health needs and lacking prior business experience, she sought the guidance of a business coach to bring her vision to life.
“Starting the business was daunting,” she said. “I was navigating uncharted waters, but my passion for empowering women kept me going. I wanted them to see that with the right support, they could thrive, not just survive.”
The programme prioritises practical language skills, encouraging women to begin speaking from day one, rather than focusing exclusively on grammar or textbooks. Early on, Qendresa helped a hairdresser, Kristina, regain her confidence and professional footing.
“Kristina was ready to give up her career because she couldn’t communicate with clients,” Qendresa said. “By tailoring lessons to her specific needs, we helped her secure a job and rebuild her professional life.”
Since its inception, English For Ladies has supported hundreds of women from a wide range of backgrounds, including vulnerable groups such as survivors of trafficking.
“Helping these women find their voice has been the most rewarding part of my journey,” Qendresa said. “Every success story reminds me why I started.”
Qendresa’s efforts have been widely recognised. She recently completed a prestigious leadership programme and delivered a speech honouring Mother Teresa at London’s oldest church, a particularly significant achievement for her as an Albanian woman.
The platform now offers several programmes, including a membership option, the “English Every Day for Ladies” intensive course, and an upcoming year-long initiative called Roadmap to Fluency, designed to build confidence and fluency within a supportive, community-driven environment.
“English is more than just a language,” Qendresa said. “It’s a key that unlocks freedom, opportunity, and connection. My own struggle with language was once my greatest weakness, but it has become my greatest purpose. I want every woman to believe in their ability to overcome and achieve.”
For more information about English For Ladies, visit www.englishforladies.com.
