What’s the Secret to Learning English Faster Than Language School? Having a job as a Game Presenter in Vancouver.
Do you need perfect English to start working in Canada? Not at Evolution (of course, unless you are applying for one of our English-speaking Game Presenter roles!).
For many newcomers, language can feel like the biggest barrier to starting a career in Canada. It’s easy to think you need perfect English before you even apply for a job.
The great news is that the right workplace and environment can help accelerate your language skills and confidence far beyond what a classroom alone can offer.
Find out how Rie, one of our Japanese Game Presenters did it! Here is her story.
To pursue her long-held dream of living abroad and broadening her horizons, Rie came to Canada in 2023 ready to challenge herself.
Within just a month, she applied to Evolution and secured a role as a Japanese Game Presenter. It turned out to be a defining step forward not only for her career, but for her journey toward confidence in English.
When Rie first arrived, she didn’t have much confidence in English.
“My English level was maybe a 3 out of 10. I couldn’t follow deep conversations at all. In fact, I didn’t understand about 70% of what people were saying to me.”
Anyone who has only met Rie recently might find that hard to believe.
Today, she confidently emcees company events entirely in English, chats fluently with colleagues across the studio, and stands out as a valued member of the Japanese team and a familiar face known by name throughout our Burnaby studio.
School vs Workplace
Rie turned every interaction at work into a learning opportunity.
She didn’t rely solely on textbooks or expect language school classes to do all the work. Instead, she treated real conversations with colleagues as her daily practice and that’s where her confidence truly began to grow.
While Rie recognizes that language school is important for building vocabulary, understanding grammar, and receiving guidance from professional teachers, she also noticed a common trap. Outside of the curriculum, it’s easy for students to fall back on their native language with friends for convenience, simply to get through the day.
At our Burnaby studio, things are different. With around 600 employees from more than 30 nationalities, English naturally becomes the bridge for both work communication and everyday conversations.
“At Evolution, there are no teachers, only real-world interactions. You are surrounded by colleagues from every corner of the globe, each with unique accents and pronunciations.
You hear the same essential phrases repeatedly until they become muscle memory.
This is where speaking truly happens!”
Rie’s goal shifted from “I want to practice English” to “I want to be a true friend”.
This shift in mindset changed everything.
Because she was genuinely interested in the people around her, the words began to flow naturally. Her speech became faster, her hesitation disappeared, and she found herself fully immersed in a community.
A Hiring Approach Focused on People, Not Perfect English
One of the most reassuring aspects of our hiring process for candidates is that we focus on people, not perfect English.
If you’re worried your English isn’t “perfect” yet, there’s no need to stress. At Evolution, we do not evaluate your English level during the interview. We aren’t looking for flawless grammar or an extensive vocabulary.
Instead, we are interested in who you are, your attitude, and your potential.
Discounted Language Lessons
To support our employees’ growth, Evolution has a special partnership with ILAC (International Language Academy of Canada).
This means that our employees get exclusive discounts on English and French classes.
Whether you want to polish your grammar after a shift or dive deeper into the nuances of the languages, we make it easier and more affordable for you to balance your real-world practice with professional lessons.
A Mistake-Friendly Culture That Builds Confidence
One of the biggest hurdles in learning any new language is the fear of making mistakes. At Evolution, that fear fades, thanks to a culture built on patience and understanding.
When Rie didn’t understand something, she never saw a frustrated face. Whether she was speaking with coworkers or managers, the responses were always the same: “Don’t worry about making mistakes.”
“Nobody gets bothered if I ask for the meaning of a word or if I need them to repeat a question,” Rie shares.
“They are always willing to help. It’s an environment where we learn together.“
For anyone with the drive to grow and the willingness to collaborate with a diverse team, Evolution offers a place for you. We come from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, and many have been exactly where Rie once was, adjusting to a new country and building confidence in a second or even third language.
It’s a truly mistake-friendly space, where you’re seen not just as an employee, but as a person with your own unique story and strengths. As an international company operating here in Canada, English naturally becomes the bridge that connects us all, helping you immerse in everyday communication.
Learn more about what a Game Presenter does here.
Confidence Beyond the Workplace
Confidence is the most valuable skill you can gain. Once you have it, the world opens up and you can take it with you wherever you go.
Rie’s growth didn’t stop at the workplace. Outside of her shifts, she is a talented singer, and her newfound confidence gave her the courage to take her music to the next level.
Today, she performs and sings in English, and even proudly invites her coworkers from Evolution to cheer her on from the audience.
Start your own story at Evolution
Rie’s journey shows that confidence doesn’t come from waiting until you feel ready. It grows when you step into the right environment. With supportive teammates, real conversations, and opportunities to challenge yourself, the workplace can become the fastest path to growth.
If you’re thinking about starting your career in Vancouver but feel unsure about your English or experience, remember what matters most is your attitude, willingness to learn, and openness to connect with others.
Ready to write your own story?
Explore opportunities at Evolution Canada and take the first step today.