Why She’s Interesting: At a time when people felt isolated and distanced from one another, Jackman found a way to bring people together with Time2Talk, an app that pairs up those eager to learn Spanish with native speaking tutors from different parts of Latin America. After two years of development, the app launched last summer and has since grown to serve more than 300 students in Canada and the U.S.
Discussion Board: Born in Argentina, Jackman moved to Spain when she was 24. After meeting her husband in 2015, Jackman realized they both had an interest in learning a new language, so she started speaking with him in Spanish to help him become fluent, and in turn he helped her practice English. “It’s incredible how we became fully bilingual because we started practicing regularly.”
Two-Way Street: Similar to other match-making apps, clients can move at their own pace by starting conversations with hand-picked Spanish-speaking coaches who earn income through the app. “The most inspiring thing is the thought of working for something that’s bigger than myself, and also adds value to many people’s lives.”
Tongue Tied: Jackman is fascinated by the importance of learning languages and the emotion behind how we say things to each other. “English as a language is more straightforward and more to the point. Spanish is just embellishing all the words and then making thoughts longer. It's so pleasurable."
Online Connections: Tumultuous as this year was, it might have been the perfect time for Jackman to launch the app. “This year reinforced my belief that human beings need to feel connected to be happy. I think it’s amazing how we have all adapted to using online tools to meet, live, share, work, learn and celebrate with each other.”
Interesting Fact: It took Jackman five-and-a-half hours to climb 12,198 feet to the top of Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain.
