426. How One Conversation Can Change a Life: Building Global Bridges with Katerina Manoff

Happiness Solved with Sandee Sgarlata. In this conversation, Sandee Sgarlata interviews Katerina, the founder and CEO of ENGin, a nonprofit organization that connects English learners in Ukraine with volunteers for conversation practice and cultural exchange. Katerina shares her journey from investment banking to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and the challenges of finding fulfilling work. She discusses the inception and growth of Engine, highlighting its impact on both Ukrainian students and volunteers. The conversation also touches on the mutual benefits of volunteering, the significance of personal connections, and the transformative power of language learning. Guest Bio: Katerina Manoff is the founder & CEO of ENGin, a global nonprofit that has paired over 50,000 English learners and volunteers for online conversation practice and cultural exchange. Prior to starting ENGin in 2020, Katerina spent a decade working in the education space, where she helped launch multiple nonprofit and for-profit initiatives. Katerina began her career as an investment banker at Evercore Partners. She holds a Master's in Education from Harvard University and Bachelors degrees in International Studies and Business from the University of Pennsylvania. Katerina is also a mom of two young girls and enjoys writing in her free time.  TakeawaysKaterina transitioned from investment banking to nonprofit work in pursuit of happiness.She emphasizes the importance of following one's passion over financial security.Trial and error played a crucial role in her career path.Volunteering benefits both the student and the volunteer.Engine started as a small idea and grew into a global movement.The program connects over 55,000 people, fostering cultural exchange.Language fluency opens up academic and professional opportunities.Personal connections are key to the success of the program.Volunteers gain confidence and valuable experiences through their interactions.The organization aims to reach a million people for national transformation. Connect with Katerina: Website: www.enginprogram.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enginprogram Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enginprogram/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-semida-manoff-12b27720/  Connect with Sandee:  Website: www.sandeesgarlata.com Podcast: www.happinesssolved.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/coachsandeesgarlata Twitter: www.twitter.com/sandeesgarlata Instagram: www.instagram.com/coachsandeesgarlata