Native Russian speaker living in the UK. 5 years of experience teaching Russian & English (ages 3-50). Whether you're a beginner, preparing for exams, or improving speaking skills - I'm here for you!

Find out more about Diana

• Why do you speak Russian fluently?

  I’m a native Russian speaker originally from Russia, so the language has always been part of my life. Studying and teaching other languages has also helped me appreciate Russian from a learner’s perspective.

• Who represents Russian culture to you?

  I would definitely choose the most popular Russian writer - Alexander Pushkin. His poetry and stories are such a familiar part of Russian cultural life, and his writing shows how expressive and playful the language can be.

• What word or tradition do you particularly like?

  I love the word «ничего» (nichego). Literally, it means “nothing,” but depending on the situation and tone, it can also mean “it’s okay” or “not bad.” It’s a good example of why learning a language is about more than memorising vocabulary.

• Why does speaking Russian matter to you?

  Russian connects me to my origins and allows me to share a part of my culture with others. As a tutor, I especially enjoy seeing students reach the point where they can express their own thoughts, rather than just repeat phrases from a textbook.

• What is the main difficulty, and what helps?

  For many students, the cases and changing word endings are the biggest challenge. I find it helps to introduce them gradually, with clear patterns, useful examples and plenty of conversation practice. Making mistakes is part of the process!

• Can you share an anecdote from school or language learning?

  Teaching Russian has reminded me how much a small breakthrough can mean. When a student begins using a grammar pattern naturally in conversation after finding it confusing at first, it’s a wonderful moment and a reminder that confidence grows only through practice.

• How has travel developed your knowledge of Russian?

  Living between Russian and English-speaking environments has made me more aware of the expressions and cultural references that don’t translate literally. It helps me explain clearly what something means in Russian, and also when a native speaker would actually say it.

• What makes you a Superprof?

  I combine native-speaker knowledge with 5+ years of tutoring experience and an understanding through learning French and Italian in university of what it feels like to learn another language. I tailor lessons to each student’s goals, explain grammar clearly and create a supportive space where students feel comfortable speaking Russian.