Language Extraordinaire

What inspired you to become an interpreter?

Languages have always fascinated me. One day, while helping a friend with a complicated conversation, I realized the power of being the bridge between two worlds.
It felt like unlocking a new superpower! Suddenly, I saw how crucial interpreters are in facilitating understanding and connection between people from different cultures.
That experience ignited a passion within me, pushing me to pursue interpreting as a career. The ability to help others communicate and bridge cultural gaps has been incredibly rewarding, making every challenging moment worthwhile.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Seeing the “aha” moment on someone’s face when they understand something complex in their own language is incredibly rewarding. It’s like being a magician who makes the impossible possible!
Witnessing that spark of comprehension and relief is truly magical, knowing you’ve bridged a gap and facilitated real understanding. It’s these moments that reaffirm the importance and impact of the work I do as an interpreter.

Can you share a memorable moment from your interpreting career?

During a medical consultation, a patient told me, “Your voice is like a lifeline.” It was a touching reminder of the crucial role interpreters play in patient care.
That simple statement highlighted how vital clear communication is in alleviating fear and uncertainty, reaffirming the profound impact interpreters have on patients’ well-being and peace of mind.

What advice would you give to aspiring interpreters?

Dive deep into both language and culture. It’s not just about translating words but capturing the essence of what’s being communicated. Imagine learning to cook a dish – you need to know both the ingredients and the technique.
Understanding the cultural context is like mastering the recipe’s nuances, ensuring the final dish (or translation) is authentic and meaningful.

How do you unwind after a long day of interpreting?

I love exploring new cuisines and cooking. There’s a Romanian joke I love: “De ce gătește românul? Ca să-și arate dragostea cu un gust!” (Why does the Romanian cook? To show love with a flavor!).
It’s my way of relaxing and expressing creativity. Trying out new recipes allows me to connect with my cultural roots and share that experience with others.
Each dish I prepare is a blend of tradition and innovation, offering a taste of Romania with a personal twist. Cooking is not just a hobby for me; it’s a heartfelt expression of love and creativity.

What qualities do you think are essential for a great interpreter?

An interpreter needs to be adaptable, empathetic, and culturally savvy. It’s like being a cultural chameleon, blending into different contexts effortlessly.
They must seamlessly navigate various cultural diversities and emotional tones, ensuring accurate and sensitive communication. This requires a deep understanding of both languages and cultures involved, allowing them to convey not just words but the intent and feelings behind them.
An interpreter’s ability to empathize with individuals from diverse backgrounds fosters trust and clarity in interactions. Ultimately, their role is to bridge gaps and create connections, making them invaluable in facilitating effective cross-cultural communication.

Do you have a favourite quote that guides your work?

“Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.” – Rita Mae Brown. This resonates deeply with me.

Tell us something surprising about you!

I once interpreted for a live TV broadcast in Romania. The adrenaline rush was incredible, knowing that millions depended on my every word.

How many languages do you speak, and how did you learn them?

I’m fluent in Romanian and English and have conversational skills in Spanish and Italian. Learning through immersion and practical use has been key for me.

Celebrating Our Interpreters

Stefan Mocanu’s story is a testament to the dedication and passion that drive our interpreters. Their experiences and skills are what make our services exceptional, connecting people across languages and cultures.

Stay tuned for more stories from our talented interpreters. If you’re interested in joining our vibrant community or need top-notch interpretation services, reach out to us today.

See y’all with our next shining star!👋