Bio:
Nancy Ofori is a first-year master’s student in the Department of French, Hispanic, and Italian Studies at the University of British Columbia. Hailing from Ghana, she holds a B.A. in French and Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Nancy’s research centers on linguistic insecurity and discrimination, particularly their connections to racial identity and language ideologies. She explores how societal perceptions often privilege certain groups, framing white speakers as the ‘standard’ or ideal. Her work highlights the challenges faced by marginalized individuals, particularly Black individuals and those for whom English is not a first language, as they navigate systems that marginalize linguistic diversity. By engaging in critical discussions on linguistic justice, Nancy seeks to challenge and dismantle these dominant norms, advocating for more inclusive language practices. She is committed to amplifying the voices of marginalized speakers and fostering a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between language, identity, and power. Outside academia, Nancy has a strong passion for language revitalization and the history of First Nations in Canada. She also works as a Bilingual Museum Interpreter at the Museum of Vancouver, where she engages visitors in meaningful dialogue to promote cultural awareness and understanding.
Project Description:
Nancy’s research explores the linguistic insecurity faced by Black African English language teaching assistants in France. This insecurity manifests when individuals perceive their English proficiency, particularly pronunciation and fluency, as being judged or inadequate, particularly in professional contexts. Her study identifies contributing factors such as racial identity and societal expectations of “native speaker” standards within the French educational system. Nancy examines how these dynamics influence the assistants’ performance, interactions, self-perception, and relationships with students. Her work sheds light on the broader intersections of race, identity, and language ideologies within globalized education systems.