Whether you're a beginner wanting to order like a pro or an intermediate learner craving fluency, my years of experience and passion for the language will guide you every step of the way.

Find out more about Leka

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  Languages are like secret codes that unlock fascinating cultures and amazing stories. My love affair with both English and Hindi began early on. English opened doors to fantastical worlds in books, while Hindi, with its vibrant sounds and rich history, connected me to my heritage. Both languages offered a window into different ways of thinking and expressing oneself.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  Honestly, teaching wasn't exactly on my life plan. But then I saw a student do a happy dance after finally mastering the difference between there, their, and they're. Mind. Blown. There's nothing cooler than helping someone unlock the awesomeness of language, whether it's writing a killer essay or ordering that perfect cup of chai in Hindi!

• How does your work help society?

  Think about it: languages are like social media filters for the real world. They open doors to new cultures, friendships, and maybe even that dream job abroad. By learning English and Hindi, you're basically giving yourself a superpower to connect with a wider world.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  Picking just one role model feels wrong! My heroes are all the curious minds out there who are constantly geeking out over language and my teachers who believed in my potential despite my initial struggles. They remind me that learning is a lifelong adventure, and there's always a new word, proverb, or grammar rule waiting to be discovered.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching?

  When I'm not teaching, I'm often found getting lost in a good Rom-com or crime thriller or dancing to the tunes Bollywood music, exploring new cultures through travel, or indulging in my passion for cooking delicious dishes from around the world.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  One of my students, a young boy initially quite shy, came to class after a trip to India. He walks right up to me and belts out the loudest "Namaste ma’am!" I'd ever heard. Seeing his confidence soar and his excitement about his heritage? That's what makes this whole teaching gig totally worth it. It's a constant reminder that even a simple "hello" in a new language can open up a whole world of possibilities.