About Me

Curiosity Kindness Progress
Bonjour ! I'm Jahnavi, the founder of Say Oui To Français. I'm a French teacher, a creative soul, a comic book enthusiast, and above all, someone who believes that learning a language should feel like joy, not a chore.
“Learning should feel like joy, not a chore.”
 French teacher holding baguette near castle in Edinburgh
I started Say Oui To Français because I saw how many adults were craving a more human, warm, and real way to learn French. A way that doesn't rely on dusty textbooks or robotic grammar drills, but instead focuses on connection, curiosity, and confidence.
I'm not a native French speaker, I learned French as a foreign language myself. And that's exactly what allows me to truly understand the challenges, the doubts, the mental blocks… but also the small, incredible victories that make this journey so rewarding.
After years of teaching in different settings, I wanted to create something more personal. A space where each student feels seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are, whether they are neurodivergent or not, shy or talkative, perfectionist or wonderfully chaotic. I've taught students from all walks of life, and I've learned that there's no one "right" way to learn, just the way that works for you.
I combine storytelling, visual learning, humour, and lots of authentic resources to make French come alive, exactly how I would've wanted someone to do for me when I was learning French. Whether we're reading a graphic novel, reimagining a crime scene in class, or debating astrology myths, my goal is to make every lesson feel like a little adventure: meaningful, playful, and empowering.
A Bit More About Me: I live in Edinburgh with my lovely husband. I’m always reading at least three books at once, and I find unexpected joy in silly memes, colourful stationery, and late-night conversations about what makes a good story. When I’m not teaching, I’m probably cooking up a storm in the kitchen, daydreaming about a far-away land, attending a comic book event, or making tea I’ll forget to drink!



My Story: A Love Affair with French

my first experience in France as a learner and teacher

2004 – 2013 | The Early Spark

  • 2004: Fell head over heels for all things French during my very first trip abroad to France!
  • 2005: Started French at school and instantly became obsessed: with vocabulary, grammar, everything. I even did my classmates' homework... by choice.
  • 2010: Became the state topper in French in 12th grade! Funny story: I was actually a science student and could've dropped French to take up Computer Science. But I couldn't do it. I was already, unknowingly yet irrevocably in love with French.
  • 2012: Joined the Alliance Française as a student, while still studying engineering. I also taught French to friends on tissue papers at cafés.