Local learning, global impact: Wider Europe – webinars
We all know how rewarding teaching can be. We also know that it can sometimes be very challenging. In these sessions, our speakers share expertise gained in Wider Europe on how to stay motivated and inspire your learners, especially in difficult times. You will explore practical techniques to make learning more engaging and to help learners grow. You will also learn why professional development and getting support from others is so important. Watch to get practical strategies on how to stay inspired (and inspiring!) in your teaching career. The live event took place on 13 June 2025.
About the sessions
Session 1: Panel discussion: Motivation for teaching success
Speakers:
Elona Kolaj, Nenad Miladinović and Tatyana Letyaikina, hosted by Sofija Ljiljak-Vukajlović
Session information:
Teaching extends far beyond lesson plans and grammar drills. It is about inspiring learners, adapting to challenges and maintaining personal motivation. Our panellists – Elona, Nenad and Tatyana – share insights on fostering a growth mindset and leveraging innovative techniques to keep both teachers and learners engaged. Our host Sofija leads the discussion to also cover the importance of professional development, community support and self-motivation in maintaining long-term teaching success.
Find a summary of the key points and references in the handout for the session.
Watch 'Panel discussion: Motivation for teaching success'
Session 2: Staying inspired as an English teacher
Speaker:
Rasgana Mammadova
Session information:
Teaching can be both rewarding and challenging, and staying motivated is key to creating a positive and engaging learning environment. Watch a recording of this webinar, designed to empower English language teachers with fresh inspiration, practical strategies and renewed enthusiasm for their teaching journey. During this session Ragsana shares real-life experiences and actionable tips to help you stay inspired while also inspiring your learners.
Find a summary of the key points and references in the download for Rasgana's session.
Watch 'Staying inspired as an English teacher'
About the speakers
Elona Kolaj is an English language teacher, a PhD holder, a university professor and a teacher trainer from Albania. She is the current president of ELTA Albania (English Language Teachers Association of Albania). Elona strives to empower both teachers and learners, promoting a culture of growth, collaboration and innovation across Albania. She is also passionate about inclusive education.
Tatyana Letyaikina has been involved in EFL for more than 30 years at all levels of education. Being the KazTEA (Kazakhstan Teachers of English Association) president for more than a decade, she has coordinated many nationwide projects and has collaborated in international projects training teachers with the British Council and Hornby Educational Trust, among others. Tatyana has a special interest in blended learning, AI trends and connectivism approaches.
Sofija Ljiljak-Vukajlović is an English teacher, a private language school owner and a former board member of ELTA Serbia. She also collaborates as a teacher trainer with the British Council office in Belgrade, Serbia. As a school owner, she dedicates part of her time to YALS, Serbian Association of Language Schools, organising teacher training events and running large-scale ELT educational projects.
Nenad Miladinović is a teacher and PhD holder based in Kragujevac, Serbia. He is currently employed as an English language teacher at a primary school in Kragujevac and serves as the vice president of ELTA Serbia. He has been involved in many national and international projects as an author, coordinator, lecturer, instructor and evaluator. He is dedicated to the professional growth of educators.
Ragsana Mammadova is an experienced education leader from Azerbaijan. She is the founder and current president of AzETA (Azerbaijan English Teachers' Association), and has worked closely with schools, teacher development centres and the ministry of education on both national and international projects for teachers. Her main areas of research are teacher professional development, reflective leadership and learner autonomy.