our story

So, how did we find ourselves in Taiwan and become involved in global education, anyway?

That can be traced back to a pivotal time in my high school experience.  One teacher stands out vividly in my memory: Mr. Novak. His captivating storytelling helped bring the history of China to life, introducing me to figures like Ghengis Khan, Confucius, and the Empress Dowager. The allure of Chinese culture – the rich traditions and profound history – sparked a passion that would shape my future. My commitment to cross-cultural learning and fascination with Asia deepened during my undergraduate studies.

As I discovered that my life aspirations and true calling lay in the field of education, I noticed a recurring theme among friends and family in central Pennsylvania: many people postponed their dreams of travel and adventure until retirement. Unfortunately, health issues or financial constraints often dashed those dreams. This realization fueled my desire to travel, explore the world, and enhance my value as a future educator while still vibrant and engaged.

Around this time, I had met Brenda, the woman I knew I wanted to share my life with. An aspiring educator herself, she complemented my ambitions and motivated me to strive for personal growth. When I received an offer to teach English with the International YMCA in Taiwan, I knew I had to take the leap. I proposed to Brenda, inviting her to join me on this adventure. To my delight, she said yes—then she asked me where Taiwan was, of course!

Our shared experiences during that one-year contract with the Taipei YMCA Language School with supportive colleagues and delightful students included day trips, hiking adventures, and sightseeing excursions. Other unforgettable firsts included bubble milk tea, shaved ice with fruits and condensed milk (bow-bing), stinky tofu, visits to teahouses, and explorations of Taroko Gorge and Kenting. Being a newly married couple made us more approachable and interesting, and we were frequently overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our hosts.

That one-year experience proved to be just the beginning! Through the years, we have returned from the USA to live in Taiwan on multiple occasions. We started our family in Taipei when Tyler, the first of our three sons was born. Unexpected work opportunities have also taken us to both Hong Kong and Thailand for rewarding professional and family travel experiences.

Still, we have always found ourselves drawn to return to Taiwan. The truth is, our relationship with Asia and Taiwan, in particular, has produced many friendships, amazing memories, and exciting new opportunities to make a difference! I was able to complete a second graduate degree at a leading Taiwan university. And Brenda and I have always enjoyed teaching and coaching non-native English speakers to improve their cross-cultural communication skills for travel, everyday conversation, future study abroad, or professional business career advancement.

And so, when Tyler graduated from university in the USA and chose to return to Taiwan, teach English, marry a beautiful, intelligent Taiwanese co-teacher, and begin his family here it was only a matter of time until we would return once again to work together as a family to make a difference and give back to the people and place that is our second home!

We at Willis Global English are truly ecstatic to have this incredible opportunity to work with new friends and clients as we connect, communicate, and build confidence, together! Be well,

Ken, Founder-CSO & Lead Business English Learning Consultant