Kelsey Hertel, Student Services Coordinator for Atlantic Canada Language Academy
For the past 15 years, the Atlantic Canada Language Academy (ACLA) has been a vibrant presence in the heart of Lunenburg, welcoming international students from around the world to learn English and immerse themselves in life on the South Shore. In fact, the impact of ACLA has extended far beyond language classes—it has helped shape a stronger, more connected, and culturally enriched community.
ACLA students have become an active and valued part of life in Lunenburg County, building meaningful relationships and making lasting contributions. Coming from diverse countries and cultures, our students are among the bravest—stepping into new environments, volunteering despite language barriers, and striving to make a positive impact in their new home.
Their dedication is seen across the community: they’ve helped care for the Lunenburg Food Forest, supported events hosted by the Board of Trade such as Canada Day and Oktoberfest, assisted as ushers at the Lunenburg DocFest, and volunteered at the Lunenburg Arts Fest. Many have also offered their support at local events organized by the Council of Canadians.
Two particularly dedicated students from the Dominican Republic and Japan are now teaching free beginner Spanish and Japanese classes at the Lunenburg Library—giving locals a unique and accessible opportunity to learn new languages.
One of our most meaningful initiatives has been our partnership with the South Shore Homeschoolers. ACLA students have organized educational Cultural Days, where they introduced homeschool children to the traditions and customs of their home countries. Some students have taken it a step further, volunteering to teach free painting classes to the children after school.
Recently, one of our students had the opportunity to present about Japan at the South Shore Multicultural Association’s “Around the Table: A Culinary Journey Through Our Community” event at the DesBrisay Museum, and one of our Korean students will be presenting in June.
We have also launched a heartwarming Pen Pal program with Seniors Connect NS, where students exchange letters with senior citizens across Nova Scotia. It’s a meaningful way for students to practice their English reading and writing while building cross-generational friendships. And over the holiday season, our students came together to purchase Christmas gifts for low-income senior citizens on the South Shore—an act of generosity that truly captures the spirit of our international students.
The Lunenburg community has also shown incredible generosity in supporting ACLA students. Locals have opened their homes for weekly conversation clubs, invited students for coffee meetups, and offered one-on-one language exchanges—many of which have blossomed into true friendships.
The Second Story Women’s Centre has become a welcoming haven for the women of ACLA, offering weekly art drop-ins and a weekly reading group that is supported by generous book donations from Lunenburg Bound. Similarly, the Lunenburg Library has been a pillar of support, inviting students to take part in dozens of enriching programs—from gardening and art to cooking and meditation—while offering opportunities to meet and connect with members of the local community.
The South Shore Refugee Project has been a constant source of community and connection as well, regularly hosting potlucks and welcome suppers where ACLA students have shared meals and formed meaningful relationships.
The Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (LCLC) has also played a key role in enriching our students’ experience, offering accessible opportunities to try new activities and explore the South Shore. Thanks to the LCLC, our students have learned to kayak, snowshoe, and even fish! In the spirit of Canadian culture, the Bridgewater Curling Club generously organized a free Learn to Curl session exclusively for our international students—giving them a fun introduction to a beloved local sport.
The South Shore’s charm is now infused with international energy. As more ACLA students make the town their temporary or permanent home, the local economy has also seen a positive boost with their presence. Students support restaurants, attend trivia nights, have weekly conversation clubs at local coffee shops like Laughing Whale and Number 9, and often shop at the Lunenburg Farmers Market on Thursday mornings. Many rent long-term, positively contributing to the local housing economy as well.
ACLA also runs a homestay program, where local residents open their homes to host our students for short or long-term stays. While it is a paid, tax-free opportunity, it’s truly so much more than that. Our hosts go above and beyond—welcoming students with warmth, generosity, and a genuine spirit of kindness that reflects the heart of Canadian culture. This is one of the programs we’re most proud of, as the close cultural connections formed between hosts and students have led to some of the most meaningful and lasting relationships in our community.
Students also attend local churches, have joined community groups like the Lunenburg Run Club, and this year, ACLA will have a plot in the Lunenburg Community Garden—a testament to their growing roots here. Many of our students have children enrolled in local schools—Bluenose Academy, Bayview, Bridgewater Elementary, and Parkview—and have become regular volunteers at the schools. Programs like the bi-weekly International Café, organized by South Shore Regional Centre for Education, provide extra guidance and support for our students who have children in the school system.
As ACLA continues to grow, you may notice more international students around town. These students bring vibrancy, diversity, and new perspectives that benefit everyone. The Academy’s success is deeply rooted in the warmth and generosity of the Lunenburg community, and we are truly thankful to everyone who helps make this such a welcoming and inspiring place for newcomers.
If your organization is looking for volunteers, if you would like to meet some of our students, or if you’re simply curious to connect, we’d love to hear from you! Drop by and say hello—we’re located on the first floor of the Lunenburg Academy. Our students are always eager to get involved, practice their English with locals, and give back to the community that’s welcomed them with open arms. Together, we’re building not just better language skills—but a better, more connected Lunenburg County.
