About ReDefiners

Help change lives through language education

Our Mission

As a community-based organization, our aim is to equip and empower individuals in the U.S. to be multilingual global citizens.

Our Vision

We envision communities in the U.S. embracing multilingualism and celebrating multiculturalism together.

Read Our Annual Report

ReDefiners was founded by Chantelle Daniels in 2016, a full-time educator, parent, and advocate for language learning. Her goal was to bring children the opportunity to become speakers of more than English. She set out to create opportunities for children to gain access to high-quality proficiency-based language learning.

ReDefiners is a non-profit organization that prides itself on being a pioneer in early language education programming. She has built a team of qualified teachers, international student volunteers and business professionals who are passionate about language and cultural education. Years later the organization has grown to offer language classes in Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and English to elementary ages children in PreK-5th grade and adults.

ReDefiners is founded as a non-profit and launches its first program - Summer Spanish Camp

2016
ReDefiners becomes an approved vendor with Hillsborough County Public Schools

2017
ReDefiners launches first Arabic and Mandarin programs

2018
ReDefiners opens HQ office and creates the Let’s Learn program for intergenerational multilingualism

2019
ReDefiners creates first online classes to provide assess to language education through the pandemic

2020
ReDefiners grows to double the full time staff and debuts the Academic Achievers program

2022
ReDefiners expands in-person classes to new counties in Tampa Bay as the Summer Spanish Camp doubles in size

2023

Teaching Team

Allison Martinson
English Teacher

Allison Martinson

I am an ESOL teacher with an M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language. I am passionate about language learning and teaching, and I strive to help my students achieve linguistic and cultural competency. Apart from teaching, I am a coffee enthusiast and love to travel!
Teaching Team

Hugo Bahamon
Spanish Teacher

Hugo Bahamon

Colombian Army Colonel (Ret.) and Spanish Teacher.
ESL Endorsement.
Colombian War College Graduate.
Master's Degree in Public Administration.
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.
Bachelor's Degree in Military Science.
Emergency Management Specialist.
United Nations Trainer of Trainers.
Father of six kids.
Teaching Team

Janet Richard
English Teacher

Janet Richard

For 8 years, English as a second language has shaped my journey. From teaching in Vietnam, Canada, and online to my current role in Tampa, language education is my forte. As an RISD CE student, I channel my creativity into freelance graphic design projects and painting during my free moments. Welcome to my world, where language meets artistry.
Teaching Team

Amaal Hallum
English Teacher

Amaal Hallum

I'm an English Instructor currently residing in Florida. My journey includes a Master's in Education with a focus on TESOL from the University of South Florida, complemented by a bachelor's in Written Journalism from Palestine. For me, language instruction is not just a career; it's a passion and a joyful endeavor with learners of all ages.
Teaching Team

Andrea Villegas
English Teacher

Andrea Villegas

Seven years ago I accepted a teaching job in Yamaguchi, Japan. I didn't know what to expect or what I would even want a year later. However after my first day, I knew teaching was what I was meant to do. In my free time, I enjoy studying different languages, baking, gardening, and dancing. My dream is to open a flower/tea shop near the mountains.
Teaching Team

Isabel Figuera
Spanish Teacher

Isabel Figuera

I have worked as a teacher for 9 years, I enjoy incorporating technology and creative activities into my classroom to enhance learning experiences. Outside of teaching, I love exploring new languages and cultures, which enriches my teaching approach and connects me with my students.
Teaching Team

Reem Abu Qurah
Arabic Teacher

Reem Abu Qurah

I am passionate about teaching Arabic and sharing the richness of Arab culture. With experience creating engaging, student-centered lessons for children, I aim to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love for language learning. My goal is to empower students to become multilingual global citizens who value diversity and cultural understanding.
Teaching Team

Heba Elhelw
Arabic Teacher

Heba Elhelw

I have previous experience working with children in schools in both Egypt and the U.S., which has helped me develop strong classroom management and teaching skills. I am also continuously improving myself through training and practice to provide modern, interactive teaching methods that make learning fun and effective.
Teaching Team

Scott Matejka
English Teacher

Scott Matejka

For nearly a decade, I've been deeply involved in ESOL, with most of my experience gained in Moscow, Russia. When not teaching, you'll often find me on the tennis court, engrossed in a game of poker, or exploring the strategic world of chess. Family-wise, I'm blessed with two children and a loving wife, and I couldn't be happier living in sunny Tampa.
Teaching Team

Monica Villar
Lead Spanish Teacher

Monica Villar

I am a devoted and outcome-oriented educator dedicated to delivering excellence in both quality and service. With more than 25 years of extensive experience in the field, my fervent passion for education and community engagement drives my unwavering commitment to achieving exceptional outcomes.
Teaching Team

Lubabah Hasan
Arabic Teacher

Lubabah Hasan

Ph.D. in Arabic Literature and Criticism from the University of Jordan with 17 years of teaching experience. Specialized in creating immersive Arabic curricula with a focus on the communicative approach. Proven track record in providing educational resources in diverse settings, both face-to-face and online.
Teaching Team

Yinghan Jin
Lead Mandarin Teacher

Yinghan Jin

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Technology in Education & Second Language Acquisition at USF, I bring experience from teaching Mandarin at the Council on International Educational Exchange and English to Chinese K-5 students in China. My mission is to make Chinese culture accessible to children of all backgrounds.
Teaching Team

Eman Alshurafa
English Teacher

Eman Alshurafa

Teaching is my passion. I love to watch kids/adults learning and growing in their language. My goal is to finish my PhD in applied linguistics as soon as I can.
Teaching Team

Sun Mengmeng
Mandarin Teacher

Sun Mengmeng

As a dedicated Chinese language instructor, I prioritize cultural education and incorporate traditional Chinese arts into my teaching. I have a wide-ranging experience, from kindergarteners in immersion programs to college students and adult learners. I utilize innovative methods and multimedia resources to actively engage students and nurture a holistic understanding of Chinese language and culture.
Teaching Team

Mariluz Naranjo
Spanish Teacher

Mariluz Naranjo

Passionate about fostering cultural understanding and inspiring confidence in Spanish proficiency, I've dedicated a decade to teaching at various levels, from beginners to advanced learners, in universities and language organizations. My teaching philosophy centers on encouraging students to explore diverse aspects of Spanish-speaking culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity.
Teaching Team

Richard Baroudy
Lead Arabic Teacher

Richard Baroudy

I'm an Arabic language and literature instructor. I teach Arabic grammar, vocabulary, and literature history through engaging lessons and hands-on activities. My focus is on creating a safe and effective learning environment, emphasizing class discipline and effective pedagogy. Join me for an immersive exploration of the Arabic language and its rich literary tradition.

Operations Team

Chantelle Daniels
Executive Director

Chantelle Daniels

With 16+ years of international leadership and education experience, I'm dedicated to empowering multilingual citizens. Originally from Detroit, MI, I hold degrees from Western Michigan University and Regent University. I'm committed to ongoing professional development and hold certifications in Grant Writing and Non-profit Management.
Programs Team

Carmela Diaz
Director of Programs

Carmela Diaz

I believe that education is a powerful tool that can be used to empower individuals and communities. I am dedicated to creating programs and initiatives that are sustainable and have a long-lasting impact on the communities we serve. I understand the importance of collaboration and building strong partnerships in order to achieve our goals.
Multilingual Citizens Program

Kaitlyn Forster
Program Coordinator

Kaitlyn Forster

USF graduate with dual degrees in International Studies and Applied Linguistics. I've been teaching ESL for 2 years, online and in-person, including abroad in South Korea. Passionate about languages, I speak intermediate Spanish and A1 levels in Italian, Polish, and Korean. Beyond teaching, I delve into history and indulge in a love for theater and music. Join me on a journey of language, culture, and the arts.
Multilingual Citizens Program

Lamiae Abbouyat
Program Assistant

Lamiae Abbouyat

I am passionate about empowering multilingual communities through education and service. My experience blends meticulous data management with hands-on, DCF-certified teaching. As a recently certified Arabic/English interpreter, I am eager to apply these skills to support the ReDefiners team and the participants we serve.
Global Explorers Program

Adriana Vega
Program Coordinator

Adriana Vega

I received my Bachelors in biological health sciences from the University of South Florida in December of 2022. I have a passion for public health and addressing the social determinants of health through community programs. I work part-time as a Waiver support coordinator for individuals with disabilities in Florida and now for ReDefiners World Languages as the GEP program coordinator.
Community Support Team

Jelena Feliciano
Community Support Specialist

Jelena Feliciano

I'm bilingual individual fluent in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language, with a strong background in data analysis and application support. My passion lies in fostering community connections through leveraging data insights and providing support where needed.
Teaching Team

Richard Baroudy
Lead Arabic Teacher

Richard Baroudy

I'm an Arabic language and literature instructor. I teach Arabic grammar, vocabulary, and literature history through engaging lessons and hands-on activities. My focus is on creating a safe and effective learning environment, emphasizing class discipline and effective pedagogy. Join me for an immersive exploration of the Arabic language and its rich literary tradition.
Teaching Team

Yinghan Jin
Lead Mandarin Teacher

Yinghan Jin

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Technology in Education & Second Language Acquisition at USF, I bring experience from teaching Mandarin at the Council on International Educational Exchange and English to Chinese K-5 students in China. My mission is to make Chinese culture accessible to children of all backgrounds.
Teaching Team

Monica Villar
Lead Spanish Teacher

Monica Villar

I am a devoted and outcome-oriented educator dedicated to delivering excellence in both quality and service. With more than 25 years of extensive experience in the field, my fervent passion for education and community engagement drives my unwavering commitment to achieving exceptional outcomes.
Teaching Team

Allison Martinson
English Teacher

Allison Martinson

I am an ESOL teacher with an M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language. I am passionate about language learning and teaching, and I strive to help my students achieve linguistic and cultural competency. Apart from teaching, I am a coffee enthusiast and love to travel!
Social Impact Team

Makya NeVilles-Sorell
Social Impact Coordinator

Makya NeVilles-Sorell

I’m a Creative Writing major with a passion for storytelling, editing, and learning marketing through hands-on experience. I’ve published in literary magazines and served as a copy editor for a domestic violence training manual with WICA AGLI. My background in hospitality has strengthened my communication and problem-solving skills. With ReDefiners, I’m growing professionally while continuing to write, create music, and explore nature with my wife.
Social Impact Team

Lucas Blanco
Marketing Director

Lucas Blanco

I bring 6+ years of international marketing and PR experience. I craft high-impact campaigns and customer journeys that drive ROI. Passionate about storytelling and brand growth, I blend strategy and creativity to build strong global connections across diverse markets.

Board of Directors

Dr. Carla Sparks
Board President

Dr. Carla Sparks

Dr. Carla Sparks is an Associate Professor, Program Director, author, and speaker specializing in project-based learning, gender-responsive instruction, and educational leadership.
Board of Directors

Dr. Amanda Sheets
Secretary

Dr. Amanda Sheets

Dr. Amanda Sheets builds practical, data-driven strategies linking education and economic growth, ensuring equitable opportunities for students and communities.
Board of Directors

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk
Board Member

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk is a higher-education leader and committed volunteer advocating for student success, inclusion, and impactful community engagement.
Board of Directors

Teresa Johns
Board Member

Teresa Johns

I've served on the board for 3 years after benefiting from RDWL services like summer camps and Arabic classes for 2 years. My skills include multilingualism and non-profit management. With 16 years of non-profit experience, including 5 years in early childhood education and administration, I am proficient in English and Spanish and conversational in Mandarin, Arabic, French, and German.
Board of Directors

Ashley Counahan
Board Member

Ashley Counahan

Ashley Counahan is a bilingual educator and DEI leader who mentors teams and expands accessible programs for English learners in Tampa Bay.
Board of Directors

Mariela Ayala
Board Member

Mariela Ayala

I’m a bilingual public speaker and freelance paralegal with experience across legal, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. Skilled in negotiation, events, and people management, I bring creativity and connection to every role. I speak on motivation, nutrition, and glow-up journeys in English and Spanish. I believe diversity drives opportunity—join me in spreading the word and opening doors for others.
Board of Directors

CT Harris
Board Member

CT Harris

With over 19 years of business experience across industries, I’m passionate about using my leadership, network, and voice to advance meaningful change. I believe in community service, advocacy, and the power of language to connect cultures. As a lifelong learner and communicator, I’m proud to support Redefiners World Languages in building a more inclusive, culturally aware world—one conversation at a time.

Advisory Council

Dr. Carla Sparks
Council Member

Dr. Carla Sparks

Dr. Carla Sparks is an Associate Professor, Program Director, author, and speaker specializing in project-based learning, gender-responsive instruction, and educational leadership.
Advisory Council

Dr. Amanda Sheets
Council Member

Dr. Amanda Sheets

Dr. Amanda Sheets builds practical, data-driven strategies linking education and economic growth, ensuring equitable opportunities for students and communities.
Advisory Council

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk
Council Member

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk is a higher-education leader and committed volunteer advocating for student success, inclusion, and impactful community engagement.
Advisory Council

Carla Foord
Council Member

Carla Foord

Dr. Carla D. Foord is an Assistant Professor for the Educational Leadership and Master of Arts in Teaching Alternative programs at National Louis University (NLU) Florida Regional Center. She earned both her Master of Education and Doctor of Education degrees in Educational Leadership from NLU, where she also earned an Educational Specialist degree in District-Level Educational Leadership.
Advisory Council

Peter Kramer
Council Member

Peter Kramer

I am the Associate Director of Outreach and Enrollment at the Tampa, Florida campus of National Louis University and have over 20 years of experience in higher education, 10+ of those years with National Louis University. I enjoy helping students achieve the success that helps them better their lives, their families' lives and their communities.
Advisory Council

Maha Alardah
Council Member

Maha Alardah

Education leader and curriculum expert with a proven track record in developing strategic plans, analyzing data, and driving instructional excellence. With experience in education leadership, curriculum development, and professional development, I empower educators and students to achieve their full potential.
Advisory Council

Souad Barchini
Council Member

Souad Barchini

As a lifelong language lover and community connector, I make sure to deploy my degree in Graphic Design and business management to fulfill my true calling, education and development. As an active volunteer I help bridge cultural gaps through translation, resource sharing, and community outreach. I believe learning is how we stay curious, capable, and connected to the world around us.
Danita Smith
Heba ElKammar
Hener Elshemy
Lorrier Butler
Melodi Smith
Miss Evie
Veronic Miller

suncoastcreditunion

“We understand that education plays an essential role in the well-being of our future, and that with education, we become a stronger and better equipped society. We want to contribute to the success of young people, knowing that these students are the future of our communities.”

Kourtney Berry

Executive Director | Suncoast Credit Union Foundation

"I wanted to take a moment to recognize the outstanding services provided by Multilingual Citizens Program in 2023 to children and their families in our community. The program met all of its outcomes and together we are making an impact to meet needs in our community that reaffirm our commitments.

On behalf of the Children’s Board, Congratulations! All of our thanks go out to you and your staff."

María Negrón

Director of Programs | Children's Board of Hillsborough County

“Literacy is the great equalizer. PNC supports the ReDefiners World Languages programs in Tampa because we recognize that economic vitality and a brighter future begins with better language skills supported by quality educational opportunities for children and families.”

Chad Loar

PNC regional president for West & Central Florida | PNC Foundation

Filling the gap in Language Education

Filling the gap in Language Education

Help change lives through language education

Our Mission

Our Vision

Values that make a difference

Values that make a difference

Our Founder

Our Journey

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2022

2023

Teaching Team

Allison Martinson

Hugo Bahamon

Janet Richard

Amaal Hallum

Andrea Villegas

Isabel Figuera

Reem Abu Qurah

Heba Elhelw

Scott Matejka

Monica Villar

Lubabah Hasan

Yinghan Jin

Eman Alshurafa

Sun Mengmeng

Mariluz Naranjo

Richard Baroudy

Leadership Team

Chantelle Daniels

Carmela Diaz

Kaitlyn Forster

Lamiae Abbouyat

Adriana Vega

Jelena Feliciano

Richard Baroudy

Yinghan Jin

Monica Villar

Allison Martinson

Makya NeVilles-Sorell

Lucas Blanco

Board of Directors

Dr. Carla Sparks

Dr. Amanda Sheets

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk

Teresa Johns

Ashley Counahan

Mariela Ayala

CT Harris

Advisory Council

Dr. Carla Sparks

Dr. Amanda Sheets

Diana “DeeDee” Kirk

Carla Foord

Peter Kramer

Maha Alardah

Souad Barchini

Danita Smith

Heba ElKammar

Hener Elshemy

Lorrier Butler

Melodi Smith

Miss Evie

Veronic Miller

Interested in joining our growing team?

Interested in joining our growing team?

Funding Partners

Program & Outreach Partners

Partner Testimonials