Sigga Hansen, teacher and founder of Lingua Danica, is on a mission to make the Danish language and culture accessible to learners worldwide through social media. Read on and learn more about the Danish teacher changing the way we learn languages.
With over 75,000 followers on social media, @linguadanica has become one of the largest communities for Danish learners globally, offering resources and support to those eager to connect with Denmark on a deeper level.
SIGGA’S STORY
Born in 1982, Sigga’s dedication to languages is the foundation of her career. Holding a degree in French and Spanish language, culture, and history, as well as specialized training in teaching Danish as a second language, she spent years teaching at prominent language schools in Copenhagen. In 2021, she took her expertise into the digital realm, launching Lingua Danica as an independent platform, with the mission of combining accessible online courses with dynamic social media content to support learners of all levels in discovering the Danish language and culture.
“I’ve always been passionate about building communities and making a meaningful difference for those learning Danish,” says Sigga. “Lingua Danica is the realization of that vision, allowing me to connect with students around the world.”
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EMPOWERING EXPATS THROUGH LANGUAGE
Lingua Danica serves a diverse audience, many of whom are expats in Denmark seeking to integrate more fully into their new home. “While Denmark’s English proficiency is widely recognized, learning Danish is key to unlocking deeper cultural and social connections,” explains Sigga.
Students’ motivations range from professional aspirations to personal goals, such as communicating with Danish family members. “Learning Danish literally opens doors,” Sigga adds, emphasizing the practical and emotional benefits of fluency in navigating life in Denmark. Lingua Danica provides a bridge for newcomers, offering tools to help them thrive in their adopted country.
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E-LEARNING: BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS
Recognizing the potential of e-learning, Sigga has embraced digital platforms to expand access to Danish language education. Through daily social media content—including tips, engaging reels, and cultural insights—Lingua Danica has made the learning process more approachable and enjoyable.
For those seeking a more structured approach, Sigga offers online courses that allow students to learn at their own pace, regardless of location. “Creating content that is both educational and entertaining is central to my approach,” says Sigga. “I want to make Danish a language that anyone can feel confident learning, no matter where they are in the world.”
We have asked Sigga how she got where she is now.
With a master’s degree in language studies from the University of Copenhagen I began teaching Danish as a second language in 2010. By chance really! I applied for one job but got hired for another one as a Danish teacher. But oh boy! Am I happy for this life-changing opportunity!
When I started out teaching, I worked for two of the biggest language schools in Copenhagen, but since 2018, I’ve been a solopreneur, rocking it and helping Danish learners from all over the world to speak better Danish from my own company, Lingua Danica.
For the last few years, I’ve been discovering the possibilities of online teaching. I love how the internet makes the world smaller, making it possible for me to teach students not only in my own city but anywhere else in Denmark and in the rest of the world really.
For someone who never wanted to teach, it’s a pretty awesome turn of event… that helping people just like you(!) to speak better Danish turned out to be one of my biggest life missions!
Why did you do it?
I love when my students get those “aha moments” when they suddenly get something they never understood. And I love even more when they come and tell me about their achievements with Danish. Then I know my mission is accomplished!
Also, in Denmark, it’s possible for newcomers to manage just with English. But to get the full “Denmark experience”, to feel included in the society, it’s important to learn the language.
I’m here with the Danish toolbox under my arm, helping you towards those Danish goals you have, whatever they may be! Whether you want to work in Denmark or whether you do have a job but want to speak more Danish at work or whether you “just” want to be able to speak more in general, I’m determined to make this journey together fun and enjoyable!
So, jump on board and let’s learn Danish together!
Danish Teacher Changing the Way We Learn Languages, based on a press release from Lingua Danica.
All images © Sigga Hansen