Shama Institute for Cultural Exchange
Learn languages through real conversations and culture.
Learn the language you've dreamed of, whether it is Arabic, Amharic, Tigrinya, or more, from expert tutors, the majority of whom are refugees. Support dignified livelihoods and join our social enterprise model while gaining fluency and cultural understanding.
Native & Fluent Speakers
Learn from native or highly fluent speakers with real teaching experience and deep cultural knowledge.
Verified Profiles
Every tutor is vetted for quality and commitment to student success.
Flexible Learning
We craft every session around your interests and needs. No rigid curriculum, just real progress.
Affordable Prices
As a mission-driven institute, we focus on quality, not profit. Great education shouldn't cost a fortune.
Languages
Choose your language
We offer expert-led sessions in languages spoken across Africa and beyond.
AR
Arabic Language
AM
Amharic Language
TG
Tigrinya Language
FR
French Language
EN
English Language
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More coming soon
Pricing
Session bundles
Pick the plan that matches your goals. All bundles include tutor matching, flexible scheduling, and progress tracking.
How it works
Get started in three simple steps
With secure payment up front, we handle the matching so you can focus on learning.
Tell us your goals
Fill in a short form with your target language, current level, learning objectives, and availability. It only takes a few minutes.
Pay & pick your time
Select a session bundle and complete your payment, then pick the time that works best for you. You'll also have the option to choose your own tutor.
Your tutor confirms. You're in!
Your tutor will confirm the appointment. That's it! Enjoy learning.
Why us
Learn a new language online anywhere, anytime!
Ignite cross-cultural connection through the power of language and shared stories.
Learn through real conversations (not textbooks)
Our sessions are built around real dialogue, not drills. You learn by speaking, listening, and connecting with your tutor from day one.
Experience culture, not just vocabulary
Language lives in stories, customs, and shared moments. Our culturally-rich programs help you understand the world behind the words.
Support meaningful global connections
The majority of our staff are refugees and/or women. Your learning journey empowers others by providing them with a decent income.
1st Refugee-Owned Social Enterprise
in Ethiopia
Our story
See us in action
Watch how Shama Institute is transforming language learning and creating dignified livelihoods for tutors everywhere.
Testimonials
What our learners say
“My experience learning English online with Shama Institute has been excellent. The teaching quality was outstanding, and my teacher was highly professional. I truly improved my skills through this experience, and I appreciate the institute's commitment to quality education.”
Zahra Ali Al-Araqi
English Learner
“Shama Institute is more than a place to study, it is a warm, supportive, and professional learning environment. The team is welcoming, and the teacher's explanation style is clear and effective. I'm very grateful for this experience and wish the institute continued success.”
Raqia Ali
Language Learner
About us
We empower learners with culturally rich language and storytelling experiences.
Shama Institute combines language instruction with cultural storytelling, pairing you with expert tutors and immersive design to support your bilingual fluency and community connection.
As the first refugee-owned company in Ethiopia, we create paid opportunities for tutors and change-makers while delivering world-class language learning for individuals and organizations.
Start learning today0+
Tutors & change-makers
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Languages offered
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Cultural sessions
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Hours delivered
Ready to start your language journey?
Join other learners building bridges across cultures with expert refugee tutors.
Book a Session