For Bianca, growing up in Brazil, English was once a nightmare. She had terrible childhood experiences that slowly convinced her she wasnโt โgood enoughโ to learn the language.
But Biancaโs story didnโt end there. Through determination, immersion, and a complete shift in mindset, English transformed from a source of anxiety into a passion and a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.
After studying in Canada and rebuilding her confidence, Bianca found in Thinking in English a community that helped her stay consistent, connected, and courageous.
In this member spotlight, Bianca shares her journey of overcoming fear, rediscovering her voice, and why Thinking in English feels like an investment in herself.
Name: Bianca
Native Language: Brazilian Portuguese
Thinking in English Patreon Tier: English Master (1 year)
Tell us a bit about yourself…
My name is Bianca Aveleda, and I’m from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. My most recent role was as a Compliance Analyst, and by August 2026 I will have completed my Masterโs degree in Compliance. With that, I hope to achieve my shortโterm goal of advancing my career and becoming a Compliance Officer.
As for my interests, I love dancing, going to live music shows, and listening to Bossa Nova. I also want to share something personal about my journey with English. For many years, I had a strong fear of speaking English. It honestly felt like a nightmare for me. But everything changed over time. What once scared me has now become a true passion. Learning English has opened new doors, new perspectives, and a new sense of confidence in my life.
How long have you been learning English, and what has your journey been like?
As I mentioned before, English once felt like a nightmare for me. You might wonder why, so Iโll share my story briefly.
When I was eight years old, I received a scholarship to study at one of the most recognised English courses here in Brazil. At that time, I didnโt know a single word of English, while the other children already knew the basics. That was when my nightmare began.
Unfortunately, my classmates didnโt want to work in pairs with me, and they mocked me every day. Despite these difficulties, I have been studying English throughout my life. But unconsciously, ever since childhood, I started to believe that English wasnโt my cup of tea. I thought I wasnโt able to learn it, that I didnโt have the skill, that I simply wasnโt smart enough.
My fear of speaking grew stronger and stronger over the years. My body would react badly whenever I had to speak English at work, for example.
What are your main goals with English?
Two years ago, when I was laid off from my company, I realised that it was the perfect moment to face this fear once and for all. It had made me lose so much in my life, not only job opportunities but also my confidence in myself.
So I decided to take a fourโmonth English exchange course in Toronto, Canada. It was incredibly challenging. I used to say that โmy brain is friedโ because I was constantly mentally and emotionally exhausted. But to my pride, I overcame that overwhelming fear. I truly broke that trauma. I genuinely thrived.
After that, I decided to return for a second challenging experience. I went to Vancouver to take a threeโmonth English exchange course focused exclusively on IELTS preparation, and I achieved a good score. I felt strong, brave, and proud of myself in a way I had never felt before.
Why did you join the Thinking in English Patreon?
I decided to join the Thinking in English Patreon because the podcast had already deeply caught my attention long before I went to Canada. I remember listening to Tomโs first episodes and feeling astonished by the variety of content and the incredible way he developed each topic. Sometimes it seemed as if Tom knew exactly what I needed to hear, especially when he shared his own experiences learning Japanese.
Listening to his struggles, his challenges, and also his goals made me feel comfortable again, encouraged, and no longer alone on this path. The podcast helped me rediscover my appreciation for the language. What struck me most was the quality of Tomโs work. It is truly very well done. No matter the topic, he always presents it in a very interesting and captivating way.
Thanks to Thinking in English, I changed my mindset and found the courage to take the step of going to Canada as a way of immersing myself and embracing the greatest challenge of my life.
What is your favourite part of your Patreon membership?
It’s hard to choose just one favourite part. This membership provides me with several types of activities and content, including having a monthly chat with Tom. It’s amazing! I feel as if my membership is a kind of online extension of the English exchange courses I took abroad.
I usually have at least five hours of conversation practice per week, and I keep meeting lovely new friends from all around the world. I have to say that since I came home, Iโve been maintaining my consistency in English, especially in speaking, thanks to the Patreon membership.
Would you recommend Thinking in English to others?
Yes, absolutely! As I said before, the quality of the episodes is excellent, and there are many different activities to interact with and practise, including the Peter’s Film Club, which I really enjoy.
And what’s more, Peter (Tom’s recommended English teacher) is one of the kindest and best teachers I have ever met on my English journey. I feel at home with them because they are also students of other languages, and it might seem unimportant, but it truly matters. They understand us better and share valuable experiences, techniques, and tips.
I strongly recommend Thinking in English. The way I see it, itโs not an expense, itโs an investment in ourselves!
Tom’s Comment…
Bianca has come so far in less than a year in the Thinking in English community. I remember our first conversation… she was super nervous and almost shaking. But over time, she has grown so much in confidence and become a vital part of our community!
I also think Bianca holds the record the commenting on the most Thinking in English episodes. Quite often I will wake up in the morning to see 5 or 6 comments on Bonus Episodes from Bianca. She is actively trying to turn her passive listening into real English study.
If youโve ever felt afraid to speak English, doubted your ability, or carried past experiences that held you back, I think Biancaโs story shows that change is possible.
The Thinking in English Patreon is a supportive space where you can practise speaking regularly, connect with learners who truly understand the journey, and build your confidence step by step.
Join the Thinking in English Patreon today and invest in yourself, just like Bianca did. Your English doesnโt have to be perfect. It just has to be yours.
How to Become a Patron?
Becoming a patron is a simple process. To join our community and access exclusive content and benefits, follow these easy steps
- Click on the “Become a Patron” button on our Patreon page.
- Select the tier that aligns with your language learning goals.
- Complete the registration process, which includes setting up your payment method.
- Once you’re a patron, you’ll gain immediate access to the benefits of your chosen tier.
