Interpretation

I am a consecutive interpreter. What does it mean?

A translator translates in writing. An interpreter translates a conversation orally. A consecutive interpreter, also called conversation interpreter, does not translate simultaneously (like a conference interpreter). Present alongside two parties, the consecutive interpreter translates in turn what the parties say. I interpret from French into Dutch (and vice versa) as well as from Spanish into Dutch (and vice versa).

I act as consecutive interpreter before the Office of the Commissioner General for Refugees and Stateless Persons. I also completed a training course in community interpretation organized by the Flemish government’s agency for integration and insertion (Vlaams Agentschap voor Integratie en Inburgering). I'm now a certified community interpreter.

What is a community interpreter?

A community interpreter translates communications between two parties in an administrative, social or medical context. She assists people who do not have a sufficient command of the language in which the services are provided. For example, she may intervene at the hospital, during a parent-teacher conference, at a meeting with the administration (welfare agency, court system, etc.) or during a consultation with a psychologist. The community interpreter is required to observe a code of ethics. Discreet and neutral, she offers a complete and transparent translation. She acts professionally in all circumstances.