Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) connects two parties with an interpreter via an internet video chat allowing remote interpreting without missing the body language component of communication. It has been particularly helpful during these times of COVID-19 as we are trying to limit the amount of people in spaces together. Essentially, this means that everyone can access healthcare, even if they are from a non-English speaking background, they are in a remote area, and/or they are isolating at home. Translationz provides on-demand VRI services to Toowoomba and Gold Coast Hospitals and we would like to share the great things that this brings to the community in terms of healthcare.
Professionals conducting sessions with people from non-English speaking backgrounds at times question: do I need to call an interpreter? So, how do you know when you need an interpreter?
There is a simple assessment process to determine if an interpreter is needed. It is important to pick up on communication cues, body language, and the engagement of your client.
Interpreters are in high demand, and Australia is lacking in the number of certified interpreters available. For this reason, some programs and incentives are being created to help get bilingual people into the interpreting field.
CatholicCare Social Services Toowoomba has created a multifaceted approach which includes an Interpreter Internship model and education and professional development for informal and incidental interpreters. This program is specifically designed for regional areas to encourage locals to support the growing migrant population.
International Translation Day (ITD) is celebrated on the 30th of September every year. This date marks the feast of St. Jerome, patron saint of translators.
ITD was created to provide an opportunity to pay tribute to the work of language professionals. When this international day was declared, The United Nations wanted to recognise the important role translators play in bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding and cooperation, contributing to development, and strengthening world peace and security.
Every year, the UN host the UN St. Jerome Translation Contest among staff and select universities to honour International Translation Day. The contest rewards the best translations in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and German. Similarly, the International Federation of Translators also hold an annual poster competition based on the year’s theme. This year’s poster can be seen below.
This year’s NAIDOC theme is ‘Heal Country’. The theme “calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage” (NAIDOC, 2021).