Category: Interpreting

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Interpreting Skills Development

Interpreter Building Blocks with Eugene Mathey

Introduction

Eugene ‘Gene’ Mathey is a lecturer at North West University and has an MA in interpreting. He is a professional interpreter with almost 20 years experience in the industry.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation.

1) Why is language fluency so important for interpreters?

Having the required language proficiency is the main building block to becoming an interpreter. You need to have a very solid foundation in your first two languages; one of which should ideally be English and one of the South African languages or Sign Language. If you are looking to penetrate the international market, then learning an international language would be beneficial.

2) What does fluency mean?

Fluency means that you are able to sleep, eat, dream, and get angry in that language. It’s a language that you should be comfortable with in any scenario, whether it’s informal, on the streets, highly formal – you have to be able to accommodate any conversation in that language. You need at least two languages as a foundation; if you don’t have them fully developed you’re going to run into trouble

3) What skill do interpreters need?

The ability to speak properly is an important skill and having the confidence to go into an event not fully knowing what people are going to say. Immediately after you are expected to say the exact same thing in another language; making sure that the same feeling, intent, and meaning is conveyed.

Secondly, the ability to think on your feet very quickly is crucial. Interpreting is considered to be ‘serious under pressure voice acting’ because you have to follow what someone else said and act it out.

Another important skill an interpreter needs is a very good short term memory and remember what is being said; coupled with the ability to write things down and note taking.

4) What role does cultural awareness play when interpreting?

Some languages are mono-cultural while others are bi-cultural; and interpreters need to be well-versed in all of that. You need to know the behaviours, struggles, identity issues faced within the community. Interpreters are cultural brokers; it’s you responsibility to make sure that people of different cultures cross the barrier and communicate as if they are from the same culture.

By not being connected to the culture, you run the risk of not being fully culturally aware. The Deaf community needs to feel safe and comfortable with their SASL interpreter; that is less important when it comes to spoken languages because the people don’t really need to know you. This actually works in your favour because can have that sense of objectivity and neutrality: “I’m not here to help you, I’m not on your side. My job is to make sure you can with the other person as if you spoke the same language.

5) Do interpreters need mentors?

Developing your professional career comes with a lot of time and experience; whenever a new interpreters starts regardless of how well you may have trained or simulated – being in a real situation where what you say influences real people’s real lives, puts a completely different pressure on you. It’s okay to make mistakes.

My advice to interpreters in training is: Be honest with yourself and your clients. Tell them that you are still inexperienced and you are willing to do a job without getting paid or working with an experienced interpreter, who can catch up if something goes wrong and pick up the slack. You need to have someone who has been in the game for a while to help and mentor you because each situation is unique and that’s where you need the expertise of someone with experience to catch you when you fall.

Conclusion

One thing that I can say is that if you want to be an interpreter or any kind of language practitioner – go for it! Work is available and there are many opportunities. However, do it with commitment and responsibility because all language practice is centred around people. If not, then don’t do it. You will be doing a disservice to the people you work with and the profession.

THANK YOU Eugene for your time and valuable contribution.

Watch the full conversation here. Enjoy!

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Interpreting Skills Development Vocabulary

How to build your Vocabulary Word Bank

Interpreting is a highly skilled profession that requires linguistic fluency, a good memory, listening skills, intellect, emotional and social awareness. No two days are the same – and this makes each encounter that more exciting!

It’s near impossible to know and understand every single industry-specific jargon; even the most knowledgeable and experienced interpreter will encounter new words and expressions or will need to prepare for a new kind of assignment.

So, as interpreters, we need a way to work with our personal glossaries: organizing terminology, learning it, revising it, and sharing it with others. This is because people, language, communities and culture are constantly evolving.

A vocabulary or word bank is defined as a collection of new words or phrases that a person builds as they learn about different topics. Inspired by Russian Medical interpreter Yuliya Speroff; here are three practical techniques I still use today to build my vocabulary word bank.

1.Make Notes

I still have study notebooks, posters and files that I’ve collected several years dating back to 2016, filled with techniques, industry-specific jargon, and drawings. If digital notes work for you, go for it!

I remember when I started interpreting at a Lenasia jewellery centre in 2012; I had no knowledge of the industry, tools, and the SASL vocab needed to bridge communication for everyone. I created a poster with two columns (English words on the left with the equivalent SASL signs on the right); on a daily basis I added words, phrases and images of terms I struggled with; and asked the relevant people to help me, both the jewellery facilitator and the Deaf learners. With much practice and research, my confidence, skill and industry knowledge grew overtime.

Another example that comes to mind is watching and studying the news interpreters in the small box – pen and notebook ready! Every evening I listened carefully to the headlines, and watched how they signed certain words and phrases – it was very fast paced with lots of concentration. Fast forward a few years later, the same interpreters I looked up to became my mentors and also gave me opportunities to co-interpret several TV broadcasts with them!

2.Stay connected to your community

Language practitioners should be fluent in both their language choices and equally active in cultural communities – stay connected! People are central to who we serve and they are best way to get feedback. Do you need technical jargon? Do you want know what’s happening on the ground? Do you want to be a trusted service provider? Ask your community, they will know.

Commit to continuous skills development, training and mentoring. Become a member of a reputable language body, sign up to a monthly newsletter, or follow upcoming events on social media. This will keep you accountable and up-to-date with the latest trends.

3.Watch, Listen, Read.

Content is king. I often enjoy watching a variety of documentaries such as nature, crime and entertainment; and listening to podcasts about successful entrepreneurs provides insight to scaling a startup business. Reading motivational or self-help books builds character, confidence and resilience for difficult moments.

All this content uses different words, phrases and languages needed to build your vocabulary. Decide which themes are interesting and suitable for your client base then start practicing. Turning captions on while watching videos also creates a visual memory for spelling words correctly.

Conclusion

Interpreters are considered to be ‘walking dictionaries’ because we seem so knowledgeable about any given topic – well, now we know why! Building your word bank will take time, be patient and consistent. Figure out a creative system that works for you – use colour, images, music.

Lastly, share this information with fellow interpreters who may need support. Remember the ultimate goal is to empower more communities to access and enjoy information wherever they are.

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Branding Interpreting Personal Development

Why interpreters should think and act like a brand.

BrandSimple is a book I highly recommend for any individual or company that would like to be recognised as a successful brand. Everyone is a brand – the key is to start thinking and acting like one. Allen P. Adamson – the author, explains how the best brands keep it simple, and as a result enjoy huge success.

Earlier this year, I re-visited the main ideas of the book and felt inspired to share my practical insights on what I understand a brand to be; and why every individual or organisation should start thinking and acting like a brand – regardless of the industry and the size of the business. The research that I continuously dig up about branding is quite fascinating; all the authors, bloggers, and experts emphasise the same thing: that a brand is more of an experience rather than something we can touch and see. Its driving force is psychological and decisions are made by consumers unconsciously.

With this premise in mind; I would like to apply some fundamental principles to the interpreting industry, first as an individual followed by a business; and hopefully encourage readers to start establishing their own brands.

What is a brand?

A brand is often misunderstood and reduced to the visual elements that make up the brand, such as the logo, colours, shapes and the clothes worn. In fact, branding specialists Ignyte explain that a brand is a mental process of identifying emotions and actions that shape the perception in a person’s mind; it’s a memorable impression created in a consumer’s mind – both positive and negative.

The way that people perceive you as an individual has a huge impact on your reputation – your body language, the words you use, how you engage with others – people are constantly paying attention and making mental notes. So branding, personal or business branding, keeps evolving because you can decide who you want to be known for; and by strategically positioning yourself, you can change and control how stakeholders engage with your brand – this ultimately influences your reputation.

Thuli Zikalala is my personal brand. Yellow Owl is my SASL interpreting brand.

Here are three tips on WHY branding is so important, taken from Forbes.com

1) It distinguishes you from your competition

Your brand allows consumers and stakeholders to know exactly what to expect from you or your business. This is where you communicate specific elements such as your personality, values, purpose, mission – and by using branding road map tools, you are able to direct and measure overall progress. I’m passionate about leadership and driving positive change in my community – I want to be known and remembered for this.

Expressing your shared values and ideas is a powerful way to set yourself apart from your competitors because there is something familiar that audiences can resonate with; which influences them to choose you over someone else. Yellow Owl drives the message of making digital content refreshing, accessible and inclusive to a wider audience through SASL interpreting and captioning – we want to capture the users’ online experience.

2) It drives new business and increases your brand value

Your reputation always precedes you. There is an uncontrollable ripple effect, almost like a chain reaction when people mention your name or business. Word of mouth is also a form of advertising because people may refer your business based on the positive or negative impression they had when engaging you.

The good thing is that if stakeholders perceive you to be reliable and familiar; then new potential clients may find you because of already existing positive mental associations about you – keeping you one step ahead of your competitors!

3) It builds trust

In a world that is constantly changing; we keep looking for meaning, belonging, identity and purpose wherever we can find it. The best way to retain stakeholders in your company is to deliver on the promises you make; an this is the difference between intent and action – if customers will buy your products and actually buying your product.

But HOW do you build a successful brand?

Brand building experts Freshsparks tells us how:

1) Discover your brand voice

A brand voice includes elements that distinguish your company from competition advantage that’s easy for people to recognise. Examples of this are your brand story, logo, website, colours and taglines, mission and values. It is important to understand your passion and what you want to be remembered for – what positive impact would you like to make in society.

2) Always deliver on your promise

When you as a person or your business says it will do certain things or provide a certain experience; these are found in your messaging, tagline, launch dates. The expectation created is much higher when the promises are explicit and tangible. On the other hand, subtle promises are more achievable because consumers have more time to process branding signals unconsciously.

3) Persevere and be patient

One of the hardest reality checks is that success does not come over night; it takes a lot of work, consistency and practice. As mentioned in the beginning, establishing a successful brand is multi-layered that includes psychology, philosophy, art and science that continues to evolve over time in structure, experience and meaning.

Conclusion

When I started thinking of myself as a personal brand and being intentional in my business to communicate my vision, purpose and mission – my life changed. I became more focused and strategic about how I spend my time and who I surround myself with, like-minded people who share my ideas.

I would encourage readers and interpreters to be aware that everything they say and do is being watched and ultimately communicates a certain message that may be perceived as pleasant or uncomfortable. If you are currently unsure about how people perceive you, or you know for sure that your reputation is not that good: make a honest introspection about what you want to be known for and start moving into that direction through everything you so and say.

Before long, after some effort, you should see be on your way to building and developing your personal and business brand.

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Be Different Interpreting Unique Ability

How to discover your unique abilities

Dare to be different!

Discovering your unique abilities is one of the most liberating experiences. It never feels like hard work and exciting opportunities of making a positive impact in society keep unfolding. Through self-awareness and introspection of who I am as a person first; l am able to apply the same intrinsic truths across every area of my life – including my career.

Now, this is not to say that I am the only skilled interpreter around – in fact, there are better interpreters out there who’ve been doing this way longer. The point I’m trying to drive home is firstly; how to identify your unique traits within a saturated industry; then using the same qualities to help you stand out from the crowd.

Here are three tips on how to identify your often overlooked unique abilities.

1) Lifelong habits and behaviours

Look for and pay attention to preferences, habits, and behaviours that have consistently shown up since childhood. These affect your outlook on life and how you engage with the people around you.

I’ve always enjoyed smaller, more intimate groups because they feel personal and loyal. When I’m not alone processing my thoughts; I often find myself with one or two trusted people in my personal space, whether friends or family. 

Looking back, this guarded introverted approach has definitely influenced how I choose my interpreting projects and clients. Today, I offer exclusive interpreting services to three individual clients, who over the years have become trusted friends. Secondly, I prefer to collaborate with smaller, independent  organisations because that encourage full participation in the decision-making process.

2) It comes so naturally, it often doesn’t feel special

We have a tendency to take our unique abilities for granted because we’ve always done things this way; it no longer feels flashy or exciting. Maybe you can solve problems easily, you have an eye for intricate detail, you’re a natural leader, or you’re an entertaining storyteller.

These clues come up in areas where your execution is effortless for you, but somehow seems difficult for others doing the same task.

I have a good memory and I can retain large volumes of information mentally for a long time. Reading, research, decoding information, and having a vivid imagination come naturally to me. I enjoy engaging with content that enhances my cognitive stimulation. 

Whether it’s interpreting a keynote address, or a training session, or even ‘reading’ the emotions in a room; interpreters use both their left and right brain for language, judgement, visualisation and creativity. 

3) You show up as the hero

What things do other people always count on you for?

Are you punctual? Do you always keep your word and do what you say you’ll do? Perhaps you have a positive attitude that uplifts everyone else.
The ways that you positively impact people are the things they’ll consistently come to you for; it’s also how you show up as a hero in.

I am known for making things happen – people often delegate me a leadership role that requires planning, effective communication and assertiveness.

Having established your unique traits across different areas of your life; here are three more reasons why interpreters should dare to be different.

1) It’s noisy and everyone is shouting

Although the interpreting industry is fairly unknown to most; my observation is that the opportunities and platforms that do already exist follow traditional ways of communicating information created by somebody else. Whether it’s interpreting on settings such as TV, training or even social circles – everyone seems to blend in and follow what’s been done before.

2) You can’t be a distinguished leader by following others

I’ve always had a deep desire to be at the forefront of change; I always look around and ask myself ‘How can things be done better?’ Interpreting enables me to offer solutions to societal challenges that focus mainly on bridging communication, empowering people, and using technology to innovate exciting ways remove barriers.

Being an entrepreneur and exploring opportunities of collaboration through digital platforms is one way I intend to forge my own path and leave a long-lasting mark in the industry.

3) Great people make things happen – they don’t ask for permission

I honestly don’t think I’d be at this very moment in my life had I waited for someone or something to validate my purpose. My experiences so far have taught me that I am responsible for the way other people treat me – If I value, believe, and trust in myself, then like-minded people often show up in my life at the right time.

As an interpreter, I see many gaps that need to be filled in the way content and information is delivered. We have a long way to go! I have decided to be bold, take charge, and continue to align my daily actions to my bigger vision of driving positive change in our communities through creativity, collaboration, and mastery.

Conclusion

Decide who you want to be and what you want to be remembered for; and often those around adjust. Standing out from the crowd begins with acceptance of the mission laid out in front of you – something that only you can do. Once you discover your unique offering to the world; it’s easier to celebrate people’s successes because you understand there are plenty of opportunities for us all.

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Accreditation Career Interpreting Personal Development

To SATI, or not to SATI?

Stamp of Approval

Would you trust a doctor without a practicing licence to help you when feeling sick? Would you sit down and eat the food prepared by a restaurant that is not licenced? Absolutely not! My health and wellness are way too important both for me and my loved ones, to risk food poisoning or even worse – death. The same principle applies to practicing interpreters: as an individual or organisation; I would be very skeptical approaching an interpreter that has no accreditation for my important meeting, and ultimately risk miscommunication and a tarnished reputation.

Each industry has authority bodies that regulate practices and protect the interests of individuals, communities, and organisations. This is to ensure that work is done at a level that meets or exceeds expectations developed in that specific industry. For example, the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa) is the statutory body in the medical industry that regulates professional services offered by health workers in South Africa. The CGCSA (Consumer Goods Council of South Africa) advocates for food safety and food waste best practices across the retail industry.

For us interpreters, this institute is SATI.

Who is SATI?

The South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) is a professional association for language practitioners in South Africa; ranging from translators, text editors, interpreters, lexicographers, proofreaders, and copywriters. A system of accreditation was introduced in 1990 aimed at improving the standing of language practitioners; maintain a high level of competence; and adherence to a strict code of ethics. The system began with translation and has since expanded into other related language services.

Failure is not final

In 2017, I failed my first attempt at getting accredited. I gave it my best shot and felt devastated to learn that I failed the exam. Honestly, the exam criteria is difficult – it tests all the skills needed for language practitioners to serve and thrive in a competitive industry. Furthermore; overcoming difficulty ensures a high standard of competence needed for real-life, often stressful working environments.

Fortunately, through determination and support; I re-applied in 2018 and passed the exam. There are currently only 12* SATI accredited SASL interpreters in South Africa; hopefully this number grows over time. (*Number updated accordingly).

3 Benefits of SATI membership

  1. Ensure best practice

Being a member of a recognised association helps individuals comply with ethical requirements of their industry and maintain a high quality service. As an interpreter; being a member of SATI helps me stay accountable to fellow interpreters who look up to me; I am responsible to conduct myself professionally and ethically at all times being fully aware how my decisions may impact generations to come – positively or negatively.

2. Peace of mind regarding competence

The most rewarding feeling I get when working with clients is the re-assurance of getting the job done, very well – I can deliver on the promise to always give my best. Displaying competence is a great way to build credibility, trust, and respect with clients, while giving them a peace of mind to focus on the task at hand.

3. Networking opportunities

SATI hosts regular webinars, workshops and training; and as a member I have access to this information because I am on their database system. I receive weekly emails circulating updates of job opportunities, news of other language practitioners, and connecting with fellow professionals. It’s a great way to network and learn from other related language industries.

Strict Regulations

There are some provisions made by SATI that individuals need to be aware before they become members and get accredited. Honestly, these factors have divided the interpreting industry; making it difficult to commit to membership and accreditation. These include lapsing of accreditation if membership fees are not paid; and the year long turn-around time to re-apply if deemed unsuccessful.

However, in the true spirit of SATI and its determination for maintaining excellence for all language practitioners; SASL interpreters looking to become accredited must show evidence of either a language qualification; 5 years experience supported by professional references; and at least 3 month membership.

Conclusion

Accreditation is a controversial topic in our industry – I’m pro accreditation. There’s a deep sense of pride, honour and integrity knowing that I’m dedicating my life to serve with excellence. My advice is go all the way! Invest in your professional interpreting career through training and skills development, mentorship, or accreditation; do whatever it takes.

Anything worthwhile won’t come easy – it’s hard work, consistency, and determination. When you know your why and understand how it fits into the bigger scheme of things; you will be motivated to keep going even when failure comes.

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Digital Age Interpreting New Normal Pivot Transition

Staying relevant in a changing world

Why interpreters should embrace change

It’s hard to think of relevance when things are going well in our lives and businesses; we have systems in place and often know what to expect. This is usually the time when people and organisations slow down and take a break because they’ve established predictable processes that satisfy clients and yield financial return – it works. However, this controlled and sometimes relaxed approach has dire consequences for people who don’t see the need to evolve; leaving organisations at risk of becoming professionally obsolete.

Who Moved My Cheese by Dr Spencer Johnson is a good example. The book outlines key principles on why everyone should anticipate change in all areas of life; and what happens when we ignore the signs. It tells the story of four mice who live in a maze; and each mouse learns to respond to unexpected change in different ways. These are classic lessons not only limited to business but everyday decision making.

This book is my go-to reminder when I get too comfortable with my routine, work and surroundings. It’s my wake up call to smell the cheese when it’s getting old and start looking for new opportunities out there.

How should interpreters embrace change?

As an interpreter, I mostly use technology to access valuable information; and ultimately create exciting opportunities to offer my professional interpreting services where gaps are identified. This does not in any way undermine the trust, connection and re-assurance that human contact offers. However, it’s important to incorporate both face-to-face and virtual interaction to thrive in any industry.

During the past year; I started my own company Yellow Owl and now I work from home; I enjoy the freedom of controlling my time and choosing which clients to partner with. My social media awareness and online presence keeps growing daily; and I connect with like-minded people from all over the world.

None of this would be possible had I not made the bold decision to pivot my career, skills and creativity in favour of new online clients. I came across some useful tips that helped me change how I understood the interpreting industry and still remain relevant; here are 3:

3 Tips for adapting and staying relevant as interpreters

1) Leverage digital platforms

The internet, technology and social media has made it incredibly easier, cheaper and faster to set up a business or brand; build a loyal following; and offer your product or services to a specific target market. Not only does it break geographic barriers, but it opens up new channels of networking and distribution that previously did not exist.

My social media accounts include Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube – and now blogging, for personal and business use. Why? Firstly, to tell people a little bit more about who I am and what I’m about. I also showcase my products and services through my collaborations, created content, videos and posts. It’s important to be active on social media by commenting on other people’s posts, joining the conversation, and plugging into like-minded online communities.

What works for me is setting time aside intentionally to check my social media, even if it’s 20 minutes at a time. You never know who may be visiting or just stalking your page. The process is interesting and often time consuming – but definitely worthwhile for building online confidence and credibility.

2) Think why, not what

Be clear about why you do something, and not so much what you actually do. If you have a business, why does it exist? If you are an interpreter, why do you offer your services? Then use your what to achieve your why.

My deep intrinsic purpose (my why) is to inspire people to be and do more with their lives; to push boundaries when tackling problems; and to share my life story. The skills that I use (my what) to achieve my purpose (my why) include unique and strategic collaborations through interpreting; public speaking; and using digital tools like blogging to tell my story.

An analogy I like to use is a car travelling on the road. The road is my pre-destined path that I need to follow in order to fulfil my purpose in life. I believe I’m called to inspire, lead; and drive change wherever I am. This path is often long with many twists and bends. 

To travel along my chosen path, I need a car to get me from point A to B and eventually my destination. I chose interpreting as my professional career; I invest in my public speaking skills; and I engage with organisations and people who share similar values. This is what I do daily to keep the car moving along the journey of who I am called to be.

3) Follow trends in the industry

Please allow me to make a disclaimer for this point: The SASL interpreting industry is relatively small and unknown in comparison to other more established industries. Although we play a vital role in bridging communication across different settings; a lot still needs to be done to spread awareness, regulate and develop the profession within the communities we serve.

Most interpreters start their journey interpreting current affairs on TV; or interpreting training, meetings and workshops for both public and private sectors. Some may even interpret at corporate functions or educational institutions. I am fortunate to have gained experience across all these areas; I cut my teeth here and learned to master specific interpreting techniques and strategies.

Unfortunately, these traditional settings are often saturated with already existing service providers – making it difficult to stand out from the crowd and propose new ways of channeling content digitally. This observation frustrated me and eventually inspired me to forge my own path – I had hit the ceiling and I felt unchallenged. Today, I consider myself to be a pioneer and a trendsetter within the interpreting industry. Yellow Owl’s mission is to continue pushing boundaries by strategically collaborating with content creators, creatives and like-minded industry leaders.

Conclusion

Adapt to newer ways of doing business and living; hybrid forms of work and life in the same space will continue for some time. Listening to feedback and explore innovative ways to keep you relevant as an interpreter, and any other industry.

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Career Interpreting Personal Development Purpose

Am I really cut out to be an interpreter?

Finding your Purpose

It starts here. Finding your why. It was around 2014 when I decided I wanted to interpret full-time. I had several career options to choose from: either build on my psychology foundation; explore the education sector; or stick with interpreting and develop my skills.

You see, my type-A personality leaves little room for spontaneity: I’m results-driven; I’m obsessed with structure; and I’m a high achiever. So when I chose interpreting as a professional career, I had to go all the way! I was ready for whatever sacrifice and hard work it took to build an established career; whether it was studying further, accreditation, or practicing over and over again. Basically, I wanted to be the best! I wanted (and still do) want to be recognised among the top interpreters in the country.

Helpful questions to ask yourself

If you are already an interpreter, or considering a career as one; it is crucial to be honest with yourself. Ask yourself these helpful questions:

  • Do I want to do this everyday without getting bored?
  • Beyond the money, am I passionate about interpreting?
  • Is interpreting easy for me? Do I have a natural ability that can be developed further with intensive practice?
  • 5 -10 years down the line, what will I be remembered for as an interpreter?
  • Can I contribute something new and valuable to the industry?

Pay attention to feedback

Last year I left my full-time job as an interpreter to start my own company Yellow Owl. I can’t say I had all the answers, all I knew was that something just wasn’t right anymore. I was restless; I woke up feeling exhausted; and I had a very strong sense that something was calling and pulling me to be more than what I experienced around me – it was time.

Yes, I felt misunderstood; and I kept to myself. I even started second guessing my thoughts, desires and ambitions of wanting more from life. ‘Was I crazy?’ It felt like the world around me was black and white – I was the only one living in colour. 

3 Tips for finding your purpose

Psychotherapist Amy Morin offers several useful tips on how to find your purpose. I will expand on 3 tips that resonate with me.

1) Explore your interests

What do you enjoy doing and talking about without much effort? A good indicator is what you choose to spend most of your time doing and always make time for, no matter what – is it art, being outdoors, catering, or writing?

I have a natural ability to lead and my personality compliments public speaking. I want to inspire people and drive positive change in my community. So I always find unique ways to incorporate my interests into interpreting.

2) What overlooked social injustice frustrate you?

There’s so much more that can be done through interpreting; just by taking time to really understand one’s role in the whole communication and information sharing process. I love consuming a variety of stimulating content – whether it’s podcasts, videos, music or written text. I often take for granted the freedom I have to simply switch platforms and choose something more engaging anytime.

One of the roles of an interpreter is to remove barriers to information access – information in all forms. Unfortunately, Deaf people don’t always have the luxury to enjoy, choose or experience audio content at it best. This is a huge responsibility; but it also makes interpreting fun and exciting – identifying a gap in the market and solving the problem creatively and collectively! This injustice inspires my business model of making digital content more inclusive and accessible through SASL interpreting. Become the solution to persistent, ignored problems in society.

3) Choose your company carefully

Positive people will inspire and challenge you to also start being optimistic, it’s contagious! We all encounter problems in life; however, only you are responsible for how you respond to difficult people and circumstances that come your way.

I often spend time alone working or processing some thoughts; but I am very careful who I allow into my personal space and the energy people bring. This conscious tough decision helps me stay focused and level-minded.

Conclusion

Ultimately, we all have different paths to walk – I’m fortunate to have discovered my purpose early on in life; coupled with my interests and personality traits. This makes it possible for me to excel as a professional interpreter who collaborates with like-minded people; use my voice to solve overlooked, persistent problems creatively – and still have fun while doing it!

When I stopped comparing myself to other fellow interpreters and people in general; I began discovering my own unique skills that set me apart from everybody – built on a strong purpose-driven foundation.

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Interpreting Welcome

Welcome, Insider.

As an Insider; you’ll be a member of this limited group of like-minded thinkers, with exclusive knowledge about the ins and outs of the interpreting industry – and other related topics. You will have access to my insights, experiences, tips and my own personal take on things about what the future of South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreting looks like.

This blog is a reflection of the bold decisions I made about a year ago that led me to this point. It is a collection of the lessons learned along my journey.

Enjoy!