Katerina Manoff Founder & CEO of ENGin
ENGin is a nonprofit organization that pairs Ukrainian youth with English-speakers for free online conversation practice and cross-cultural connection. We work with students age 10-35 and volunteers age 14+.
Katerina Manoff is a Ukrainian-born nonprofit leader with over a decade of experience in the education field. After beginning her career as an investment banker, she got her Master's in Education and worked in a variety of roles in charter schools, public schools, edtech startups, and nonprofits. She founded ENGin in 2020 to transform Ukraine through the power of the English language and international connections, and is currently navigating the challenges of running an organization in wartime. Katerina is also a mom of two young girls and enjoys writing in her rare free time.
The War in Ukraine: Our Position and How ENGin is Supporting Ukrainians Today
WHAT WE DO
OUR PROGRAM
ENGin is a nonprofit organization that pairs Ukrainian youth with English-speakers for free online conversation practice and cross-cultural connection. We work with students age 10-35 and volunteers age 14+.
OUR MISSION
We are helping a generation of young Ukrainians improve their spoken English and intercultural skills, making an impact on both an individual and a national level.
On an individual level, we equip students to access academic and professional opportunities.
On a national level, we connect Ukraine with the world, spurring economic growth and social progress.
OUR VISION
We aim to transform Ukraine through the power of one-on-one connections, matching 100,000 students to volunteers within the next 5 years. Each of these pairings is a thread tying Ukraine to the world.
Today, our connections fight Russia's attempts to isolate and destroy Ukraine. Tomorrow, a generation of English-fluent, culturally competent young Ukrainians will rebuild our nation.
Please read our 2021 Annual Report here for our full story, our accomplishments, and our plans for the future. Credit: Michele Chu Design
HOW IT WORKS
ENGin pairs English learners with volunteers from around the world to conduct weekly online speaking sessions. Every learner and volunteer is screened to ensure their fit for the program. Participants are then matched based on preferences, interests, and availability to ensure an effective and mutually enjoyable communication experience. After a match is made, ENGin supports learners and volunteers throughout their participation in the program with tips, resources, and problem resolution.