In this episode, Patricia Machado shares her powerful journey from Brazil to the United States, transitioning from a career in chemical engineering to becoming a leader in language education. She opens up about the challenges of building a life as an immigrant and how those experiences fueled her passion for helping others find their voice.

Through her company, SQA Education, Patricia supports adult immigrant students from around the world, creating opportunities through language and connection. In this episode, Patricia also shares some of the innovative ways SQA Education is incoporating AI into the learning experience, making education more accessible, personalized, and impactful.

This conversation dives into the realities of building a mission-driven organization, the cultural depth of language learning, and the confidence that comes from being able to communicate. Patricia shares highly personal moments of her "why" and exposes a bravery and sense of self that we can all learn a little something from. Good thing she works in education!

Sound Bites

"I came to the United States in 2002."

"I need to work. Because I love working."

"We started teaching English for children."

"It's like having a real conversation."

"We have a 4,000 student wait list."

"Learning English is like a journey."

"Language really is freedom."

"Learning is power."

"Success is finding what you love."

"You cannot waste the opportunity."

"AI gives teachers tools."

"Language is a survival tool."

"You have to have a North Star."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:52 Patricia's Journey to the United States

10:00 Transitioning Careers and Finding Purpose

16:37 Building a Nonprofit and Impacting Lives

28:56 Innovations in Language Education

34:57 The Future of Language Learning with AI

39:51 The Demand for Language Education

40:16 Global Reach and Accessibility of Programs4

1:24 Building a Life and Business in the U.S.

44:08 The Journey of Learning English

46:30 Empowering Through Language

47:25 Integrating AI into Language Learning

49:42 The Importance of Communication in the Workplace

51:10 Defining Success and Personal Growth

55:29 The Role of Passion in Success

01:01:18 Harnessing AI for Educational Innovation

01:06:48 Cultural Context in Language Learning

01:08:04 Reflections on Growth and Impact

You can find Patricia Machado and SQA Education on the following platforms:

Web: https://sqaeducation.org/premium-esl-classes/

IG: @Sqa_education