Born in Florence. Master's degree in Italian literature. 17 years in London. Tailored courses to explore Italian culture and language. Contact me for an enriching experience!

Find out more about Cédric

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn it?

  As I was born in Florence, Italy, to an Italian father and a French mother, my early years were marked by the development of bilingualism, which profoundly influenced my life. Later, during my university language studies, I was fortunate to be inspired by several charismatic and knowledgeable teachers who made language learning a fascinating, fun, and exciting journey.

• Can you name a living, historical, or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  I could choose from a myriad of possibilities, but if I had to select one, for French culture, I'd say Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of the enchanting novel "Le Petit Prince." And for Italian culture, I'd pick the wonderfully talented actress, Sophia Loren. For France, Victor Hugo would also be an iconic representation.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition, or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  I am deeply enamoured with the expressiveness and passion of the Italian people. Equally, I admire the profound role that the arts play in French culture. I love the phrase "All'attacco" in Italian, which translates literally to "Let's attack" but means "Let's go!" For French, I'd have to pick "Amour."

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  French and Italian are not just languages for me; they are my two native tongues. From an early age, I realized that when switching between these languages, one almost shifts their personality, as each language carries unique regional references, cultural traditions, original phrases, and ways of thinking. It's akin to having unique perspectives on the world. This aspect of language learning fascinates me the most - the realization that each language is a new world, a new way of perceiving our surroundings. It is enlightening.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language, and what can help students with the learning process?

  In my experience, the most significant challenge for students learning a new language is patience. Learning a language is not inherently difficult, but it demands time, especially when our lives are filled with numerous other activities. Patience is crucial. Additionally, repetition is essential to reinforce language acquisition.

• Could you share an anecdote related to your language learning or your student days?

  As a bilingual from childhood, my approach to languages is very intuitive and natural. But for people who haven't had the chance to learn another language from an early age, I have noticed that they often develop a fear of speaking in a foreign language, a fear of making a mistake, or appearing foolish. However, what I have witnessed always, in any multilingual context, is that when one tries to speak the local language, no matter how many errors they make, local people will be delighted by the effort made and will not care whatsoever about any of the mistakes or the foreign accent. Making mistakes is how we learn. It is crucial to be fully aware of this.

• How has travel or a specific experience helped you increase your understanding and appreciation of the language?

  Having lived in four countries, including France, Italy, England, and Latvia, and travelled extensively to other destinations, each trip and experience abroad has deepened my language knowledge and cultural understanding. This unique perspective has allowed me to become proficient in five languages (French, Italian, English, Spanish, and Latvian) and enriched my global worldview.

• What makes you a Superprof?

  I am a Superprof because my passion for languages and culture infuses every class I teach, making them lively, exciting, and full of profound insights. My goal is not only to impart language skills but also to inspire a deep appreciation for the cultures and histories that these languages represent.