By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Sherbrooke’s Language Meetup, a long-running community-driven event, is gearing up for its 176th gathering this Thursday, Jan. 23, at Datoni Pronto, a Brazilian-owned pizzeria on Jacques-Cartier Boulevard. The meetup offers a welcoming space for attendees to practice languages, share cultures, and build connections.
Anna-Lissa Raymond, the primary organizer since 2016, described Jan. 17 the event as a hub for language learners and cultural enthusiasts. “We’ve been running for about 10 years, and it’s really become a family,” she said. “People just feel welcome from the get-go.”
Originally inspired by language events in Montreal, the Sherbrooke Language Meetup was initially held in bars. However, Raymond’s leadership brought a shift to more inclusive venues. “At a bar is not always where everyone feels at home,” she explained, citing the need for spaces that cater to diverse backgrounds and preferences. Winter meetups are often held indoors, while summer gatherings take place in various parks around the city, promoting exploration of Sherbrooke’s locales.
The events draw participants from all walks of life, ranging from students to retirees, with attendees speaking a wide array of languages, including French, English, Spanish, and Portuguese. The upcoming meetup at Datoni Pronto underscores this diversity. Owned by a Brazilian immigrant who has lived in Sherbrooke for 15 years, the pizzeria serves not only Italian cuisine but also Brazilian specialties like coxinhas, offering attendees a taste of international flavours.
“We’re excited to discover Datoni Pronto and introduce it to our community,” said Raymond. “It’s part of our mission to help people get to know these unique places.”
A typical Language Meetup evening is loosely organized, allowing attendees the freedom to converse in any language they choose or simply observe. Raymond explained that the event is designed to be stress-free. “You come as you are,” she said. “There’s nothing forced, and everybody takes you as you are. If you’re shy and just want to listen, that’s fine too.”
Raymond and her team make an effort to pair participants based on their language interests. For instance, someone learning Portuguese might be seated with a Brazilian attendee to encourage dialogue. “We try to know our people and target connections,” she said. “It’s really amazing to see those interactions happen.”