Christina Smith is a passionate woman deeply committed to her family and her profession.
She tells us that, “While I strive for perfection, I embrace my imperfections and learn from every misstep. My love for art shines through in my drawings, paintings, and photographs. Juggling a full-time job, mentoring business, and raising two young kids might leave little room for hobbies like reading, but I still try to steal moments for it. I can be stubborn, yet I’m also unfailingly kind and supportive. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and beneath that, there’s a resilient spirit. My husband affectionately dubs me his ‘fighter’, a testament to my blend of determination and compassion.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
Growing up in Ohio, I watched my mother navigate life’s challenges as a single parent. The determination and strength she showcased, despite our ups and downs, were the pillars that shaped my values of hard work, chasing dreams, and not letting anyone or anything hold me back. I moved to Cleveland for my education, earning a B.A. in Graphic Design and later, an MBA. There, I immersed myself in a variety of roles — from telemarketing, serving, bartending, and debt collection to managing businesses. Each position I held, no matter how varied, added a layer to my understanding and strengthened my entrepreneurial spirit. Today, I view every experience as not just a chapter in my story but as a valuable lesson I bring to my family, my career, and in the guidance I offer to others. My goals have always been centered around breaking boundaries and being a beacon of perseverance, a lesson my early life instilled in me.
Tell us something about your initiative/business. What is it about and how is it helpful for people?
My career services center on empowering ESL educators with the tools and insights they need to not only secure rewarding positions but also thrive in them. Through a dedicated job search service with monthly membership options, we ensure individuals can navigate the job market with confidence. I assist in refining CVs to catch the attention of potential employers and offer tailored 1-on-1 coaching sessions to address specific career challenges or goals. Moreover, I provide guidance on crafting compelling intro videos, engaging demo lessons, and, of course, effective lesson plans. Everything I offer is rooted in the mission of ensuring educators not only get hired but continue to excel in their roles.
While the global pandemic of COVID-19 is associated primarily with adversities, it has also brought about a true boom in startups, with successful entrepreneurship in many countries. The pandemic has impacted all of us in one way or another. Would you like to share your experience on a personal and professional level?
As with everyone, the advent of COVID-19 brought about unexpected twists and turns in my life. My husband and I, having charted out a new beginning in Spain, even purchasing tickets for an April 2020 move, suddenly found our plans halted. To add to the whirlwind of emotions, I discovered I was expecting our second daughter the very week the borders closed. We finally made our move to Spain in 2021, a year which also marked the birth of my business, ESL Teacher Mentor. The pandemic not only reshaped global dynamics but also propelled sectors like education further into the digital domain. Being an expatriate meant I was already accustomed to nurturing relationships online, bridging gaps with family and friends spread across the globe. Transitioning my career into the online space felt like a natural progression. If anything, the pandemic magnified my digital immersion, giving me a broader platform to operate and connect from
What has been the response of the users/consumers towards your venture?
In the early stages of ESL Teacher Mentor, the response was challenging. My initial course faced skepticism, and I encountered accusations of being misleading. Unfortunately, the ESL industry has seen its share of scams, leading many teachers to approach new offerings with caution and suspicion. This heightened wariness means that building trust can often take longer than in other sectors. However, perseverance and genuine dedication have shifted the narrative. Today, I’m delighted to witness more positive interactions, fostering meaningful relationships with educators. This journey, while arduous, has been deeply rewarding.
How has your life changed because of your initiative/venture?
Starting ESL Teacher Mentor has significantly transformed my life. Professionally, it’s encouraged me to keep learning and to stay adaptable. Facing initial skepticism taught me to be more resilient and steadfast in my mission. On the personal side, balancing the roles of motherhood, expat life, and running a business has been challenging but rewarding. It emphasized the importance of real connections in an online world and how genuine effort can truly help others. Seeing positive feedback and the growth of my clientele has reassured me that with authenticity and determination, success is achievable. In essence, ESL Teacher Mentor has added purpose, depth, and continual learning to my everyday life.
Do you have anyone who is the biggest support system in your life? Please let us know.
My rock, my pillar of support is undeniably my husband. He’s evolved into an incredible individual, shouldering the responsibilities of a stay-at-home dad. His dedication allows me to focus on our shared dreams and our family’s future. More than just a partner, he’s my confidant, my sounding board, and a gentle challenger, nudging me to reconsider perspectives when I might be set in my ways. His belief in me and our shared commitment to our family’s goals have been instrumental in my pursuit of both personal and professional success
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity? OR Share a motivational message for the audience/women who are reading this.
In this ever-evolving world, I urge each of you to stand as a beacon of support for one another. Uplift without expecting anything in return and without any ulterior motives. Treat everyone with kindness and respect – the energy you emit is the very energy you’ll attract. And remember, every ‘no’ you encounter is merely a stepping stone, not a barrier. If you deeply desire something, pursue it with all your heart. Your tenacity and drive will shape your destiny.
Get in touch with her:
www.eslteachermentor.com https://www.facebook.com/ChristinaESLTeacherMentor https://www.facebook.com/ESLteacherMentor https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-smith-38747623/
