Bridging worlds through language learning

At the World Bank Group (WBG), the mission to end poverty on a livable planet is inherently global—and so is the workforce. Every day, staff work with clients and partners in more than 180 countries, navigating multilingual settings where communication can make or break collaboration.  

In this context, language learning is more than a professional skill—it’s a bridge to understanding, inclusion, and impact.

“Language training at the WBG isn’t just about today’s business needs—it’s a smart investment in your career,” says Nathalie Ray, Language Program Lead. “It opens doors to global assignments and leadership roles while helping you build trust, engage clients, and deliver impact.”

So far, more than 1,600 staff have taken part in the WBG’s language training program, which offers courses in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and more. Nathalie knows the benefits firsthand—she began her own WBG career as a French instructor. “Starting early builds confidence and fluency, so you’re ready to contribute from day one,” she says.

Finding Voice in a New Language

For Igor Kheyfets, Senior Economist at the World Bank, language learning became a turning point. After completing Spanish courses in 2023, he began overseeing the Bank’s education engagements in Mexico and Argentina. Today, he conducts business exclusively in Spanish.  “The program let me customize my learning to fit the regional, cultural, and job-specific context I needed,” Igor explains. “Mixing everyday Spanish with technical topics prepared me to hit the ground running as soon as I joined LAC.”

Communicating in Spanish, his third language, transformed his ability to lead technical discussions and strengthened his relationships with clients. “Speaking to counterparts in their own language changes everything,” he adds. “It builds trust and shows respect.”

A Passport to Global Mobility

For Andres F. Garcia , Senior Economist, learning languages has shaped every chapter of his professional journey.

“Languages have always been part of my life—Spanish growing up, English for grad school, German with my family, and Portuguese in Africa—so French was the next step waiting for me,” he says.

For Ana Cristina Canales , a Chilean Senior Livestock Specialist for Eastern and Southern Africa, learning Arabic bridges both professional aspirations and personal heritage. Her grandparents once lived in Lebanon, and she hopes to soon rotate to the Middle East and North Africa (MNA) region. A veterinarian by training, Ana Cristina manages regional livestock projects in South Sudan and supports operations in Yemen. “I wanted enough Arabic for respectful interaction,” she says. “I knew I’d never be fluent, but I wanted to hold a basic conversation.”

She has since advanced from beginner dialogue to reading Arabic—one of her original goals. “Learning a language enhances memory and cognitive function,” she adds. “But more importantly, it gives insight into the cultural and historical context behind the work we do.”

For her, the effort reflects the WBG’s commitment to mobility and inclusion. “The Bank is a dynamic institution,” she says. “Language skills help us plan our next move and connect more deeply wherever we go.”

The Human Edge in a Digital Age

As technology evolves, one thing remains constant: the human need to connect. While Artificial Intelligence continues to transform how we work, it cannot replace empathy, cultural nuance, or the human voice. “Learning a language is not just about words—it’s about understanding people and delivering results through shared meaning,” says Nathalie. “That’s what makes our global workforce effective.” For WBG staff, language training is both a professional advantage and a personal journey. It strengthens cross-cultural understanding, enhances collaboration, and supports the institution’s global mission. In times of change, it can even help staff stay agile and competitive for new roles and assignments.