All posts by Kseniya

Exploring Connections and Creating Memories: Homeland Language Services at VIB Network in San Diego!

The vibrant city of San Diego played host to an unforgettable experience for Homeland Language Services, courtesy of our President & Co-founder, Luis Lanazca, and our Accounting Director, Aryil Botich. Their attendance at the VIB Network Conference and Exhibition wasn’t just a professional engagement; it was a journey of discovery and connection. 🌟

A Glimpse into the Event:

From insightful sessions to dynamic exhibitions, our team had the chance to immerse themselves in the latest trends and innovations in the language services industry. Luis and Aryil didn’t just attend; they made waves, leaving a lasting impression on the VIB Network and forging connections that will resonate in our work for years to come.

Gratitude and Connection:

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth. Your visit wasn’t just a gesture; it was an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and lay the groundwork for exciting future collaborations. Each interaction was a building block in our collective journey toward a brighter future in language services.

Building Bridges for Tomorrow:

The VIB Network event served as a platform for more than just business transactions. It was about building bridges, bridges that connect us, foster collaboration, and pave the way for a stronger and more interconnected language services landscape. We believe in the power of connections, and VIB Network provided the perfect backdrop for this belief to flourish.

If you had the chance to be part of this enriching experience, share your thoughts! Leave a comment under this post, and let’s continue the dialogue. Your insights and reflections are an integral part of our journey.

As we reflect on our time at VIB Network in San Diego, we’re energized by the connections made and inspired by the possibilities ahead. Here’s to forging new paths, creating lasting memories, and shaping the future of language services together!

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From Interpreter’s Position to Recruitment Lead: A Career Evolution in the Heart of Homeland Language Services

In the intricate mosaic of professional journeys, certain narratives unfold as compelling tales of transformation and uncharted potential. Meet Camila Rivas, whose journey at Homeland Language Services transcends the conventional boundaries of career progression. 

Join us as we delve into Camila’s inspiring trajectory, a testament to HLS’s commitment to fostering individual potential and embracing the diverse skills that professionals bring to the table. In this interview, Camila generously shares insights, challenges, and advice for language enthusiasts navigating their paths of evolution in the dynamic landscape of language services. 

In our conversation with Camila, she shared the transformative nature of her time at Homeland Language Services. What began as a role in Over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) evolved into a platform for her to showcase her versatile talents. As she seamlessly transitioned into the realm of Human Resources Recruitment, it became evident that her aptitude for connecting with people extended beyond language barriers.

Camila’s journey within HLS is a testament to the organization’s commitment to fostering professional development and recognizing individual potential. From her initial role as an English-Spanish Interpreter, she demonstrated a keen ability to not only bridge linguistic gaps but also to identify and nurture talent within the organization.

Now, as the OPI Recruitment team lead, Camila brings a wealth of experience and insights to her new role. Her leadership is characterized by a unique blend of linguistic expertise, interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of the recruitment landscape.

During our interview, Camila generously shared tips for language enthusiasts looking to embark on a similar journey. She emphasized the importance of continuous learning, not just in languages but also in understanding the cultural nuances that accompany them. 

  • Camila, you were promoted from the Talent Acquisition Specialist position. What advice can you give to people who are in the same position now?

Having transitioned from Talent Acquisition Specialist to OPI Recruitment Team Lead, my advice to colleagues is to develop effective communication, collaboration, and continuous learning. It’s really important to keep open communication channels, be proactive in staying ahead of industry trends, collaborate closely, and embrace a culture of continuous learning.

  • In your experience, what are the challenges of hiring experts in the language services market?

Challenges involve finding people with the right language skills, ensuring high-quality work, adapting to technological changes, managing diverse services, handling project complexities, and maintaining cultural sensitivity.

  • Can you share with us the goals for you at Homeland Language Services and in your new position as an OPI Recruitment Team Lead?

At Homeland Language Services, my aims include honing my skills in my current role. I’m also keen on exploring additional opportunities for growth and continuing to demonstrate my abilities. As the OPI Recruitment Team Lead, my primary objective is to effectively handle all responsibilities, supporting my colleagues and ensuring the smooth organization of our sub-department.

Camila’s story is not just one of professional growth within HLS but also a celebration of the diverse skill sets individuals can bring to the table when allowed to explore and evolve within an organization that values its potential. As we congratulate Camila on her new role, we anticipate that her leadership will further enhance the OPI Recruitment team’s capabilities and contribute to the continued success of Homeland Language Services.

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Grand feast of Thanksgiving traditions

🌟 Welcome to the grand feast of traditions! As the autumn breeze swirls and the scent of gratitude fills the air, we embark on a flavorful journey exploring the diverse tapestry of Thanksgiving celebrations across the United States. From family feasts to turkey pardons, and football showdowns to iconic parades, join us as we unravel the cultural richness and unique customs that make Thanksgiving a truly spectacular and cherished event.

  • Families around a Feast
    For Americans, Thanksgiving is a time to recognize and give thanks for the people and good things in their lives. Although it didn’t become a national holiday until 1863, the tradition dates back to 1621 when the first settlers in the northeastern part of the country shared a joint dinner with local Indigenous people to celebrate their first harvest in America. Families typically gather around a table filled with food, where the main dish is turkey – according to the National Turkey Federation, 88% of Americans consume this bird in their celebrations.

 

  • The Grand Mobilization
    The United States is a vast country where it’s common for family members to live in different cities and even states. This translates to thousands of kilometers between them. Due to the tradition of gathering with family for Thanksgiving, this is the most congested travel season of the entire year, on both roads and in airports. Millions of people crisscross the country from coast to coast. For many citizens, the Friday after Thanksgiving is also a holiday, making it a commonly considered long weekend of festivities.

 

  • Pardoning Turkey
    Another common sight on this date is the U.S. president “pardoning” a turkey on the eve of the dinner. The pardoned turkey spends the rest of its days in a zoo. Although legend has it that the tradition began in 1947 with President Harry S. Truman, the first officially recorded “official pardon” was granted by George H. Bush in 1989. This year, two turkeys were pardoned instead of one: Peas and Carrots.
  • American Football Games
    It’s also traditional for three National Football League (NFL) games to be played on Thanksgiving Day. Since 1920, two of these games always feature the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys, who host opponents in their home stadiums. Football is almost as characteristic of Thanksgiving as stuffing and pumpkin pie. Many Americans watch the games on TV while enjoying their Thanksgiving dinner.
 
  • New York Parade
    Another Thanksgiving tradition is parades organized by major retail chains in major U.S. cities. The most prominent is the one held by Macy’s in New York with large floats and iconic balloons representing comic characters parading through the famous Times Square.

 

🍂 As we conclude this journey through the vibrant traditions of Thanksgiving, let the echoes of family laughter, the warmth of shared meals, and the excitement of festive parades linger in our hearts. Thanksgiving is more than a feast; it’s a tapestry woven with threads of gratitude, togetherness, and cherished moments. May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, gratitude, and the delightful embrace of traditions, wherever you are in this vast and diverse celebration of life. Best wishes from the Homeland Language Services team!

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🌟

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Homeland Language Services partners with FEMA during disaster response efforts

Homeland Language Services, a leading language translation and interpretation company based in California, is proud to announce its recent contract award with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The contract solidifies Homeland Language Services’ crucial role in providing essential language services during disaster response operations.

As a minority and veteran-owned company, Homeland Language Services is committed to making a positive impact on the communities it serves. The company’s partnership with FEMA further highlights its dedication to supporting disaster recovery efforts and helping affected individuals navigate the challenges posed by language barriers during such critical times.

Under the contract, Homeland Language Services provides comprehensive language translation and interpretation services to aid FEMA’s operations in flood-stricken areas. The company’s team of highly skilled and professional linguists facilitates effective communication between FEMA personnel, local residents, and individuals impacted by the disaster who may require assistance in various languages.

“We are honored to be entrusted by FEMA with this important responsibility for our nation’s people,” said Luis Lanazca, President of Homeland Language Services. “Our team recognizes the significant role language plays in disaster response and recovery efforts. By ensuring accurate and culturally sensitive communication, we aim to bridge the gap and provide crucial support to those affected by natural disasters.”

Homeland Language Services has a proven track record of delivering exceptional language solutions across diverse industries. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in disaster situations, the company is well-equipped to contribute effectively to the recovery efforts in Watsonville and San Luis Obispo.

This contract award showcases Homeland Language Services’ continued growth and success as a trusted provider of language services. By leveraging its expertise in translation and interpretation, the company is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations overcome language barriers, fostering inclusion, and ensuring effective communication in any setting.

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Time to honor – Veteran’s Day

November 11 marks an important day for America. Veteran’s Day is a day when we honor and thank all military personnel who have served, or currently serve in the United States Armed Forces.

Homeland Language Services proudly salutes our nation’s veterans this Veterans Day, extending our utmost respect and gratitude to all who have served. As a Veteran-Owned Business, our tribute carries a special significance, especially as we honor our Co-founder and COO, Ernesto Lanazca, whose dedication to both military service and entrepreneurship embodies the spirit of resilience and leadership. Join us in commemorating all veterans and recognizing the invaluable contributions of individuals like Ernesto, whose commitment continues to inspire us as we celebrate their unwavering dedication and the profound impact of their service.

Ernesto Lanazca, Homeland Language Services Co-founder and COO:
“Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices that our veterans have made for our country. You are a part of history, and your bravery will never be forgotten or underestimated. Thank you for leaving a safer world for your children and grandchildren.

To all my comrades, Happy Veterans Day!”

Also, Ernesto gave us an interview about the military period in his life.

  • Ernesto, thank you for sharing your story today with us. The first question is about where did you enlist?
    I’m happy to share my story because it is an honor for me to have such a period in my life. I enlisted in the US Army in August 2000.

Ernesto Pics

  • Why did you join the US Army?
    I have always been fascinated with Supply Chain Management. Many years ago I studied Logistics Management in Lima, Peru where I learned how the US military during World War I & World War II increased logistics’ industrial capabilities, dramatically advancing transportation, communication, storage, and warehousing. After World War II, Logistics moved from warfare into business. That was the moment when I decided to join the military to study Logistics at the US Army Quartermaster School in Fort Lee Virginia.

 

  • Do you remember your first days in service?
    My first day in the US Army was the first day of basic training. As I lay in my bunk on that first night, thoughts were rushing through my head and my mind was scrambling trying to remember everything my Drill Sergeants taught me. My muscles and mind were fatigued. On that first night, I felt helpless but excited about what would happen the following day.

 

  • What did you feel during the serving period?
    It’s a drastic sudden change from normal civilian life into a military lifestyle full of regulations, norms, and expectations. However, I could get used to it, thanks to my determination on my ultimate goals, and as a result, I enjoyed it.

Ernesto

  • What do you think now about your service experience?
    Even though there were moments that were tough, stressful, and tragic, there were times that I enjoyed, making unconditional friends – Battle Buddies.
    I do not regret my experience in the US Army. The military educated me in my favorite profession, Logistics Operations, it gave me discipline, purpose, determination, team leadership skills, and love for this country, and the American Flag. Most importantly it taught me the meaning of life and the Value of Service, Loyalty, and Honor. I am proud to be a veteran and also, I’m proud to have served with such great American soldiers by my side.

 

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Homeland Language Services Thrives at ATA64Miami Conference

Homeland Language Services recently marked its debut at the 64th Annual Conference of the American Translators Association (ATA64Miami), and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. This prestigious event brought together language professionals, translation companies, and industry enthusiasts under one roof, providing an ideal platform for networking, partnership building, and knowledge exchange.

For Homeland Language Services, participating in ATA64Miami was a significant step in confirming a strong presence in the language industry. The conference presented numerous opportunities to connect with exceptionally skilled professionals and companies seeking collaboration. In a field where communication and relationships are paramount, events like ATA64 are invaluable.

One key takeaway from the conference is the mutual benefit it offers to both language service providers and businesses seeking language solutions. Homeland Language Services not only gained new insights into industry trends and best practices but also forged valuable partnerships that promise to strengthen the company’s service offerings and expand its reach.

During the conference, our Contract Manager, Florencia Gomez, had the privilege of meeting Mr. Koby Geoff, the newly elected President of ATA. Mr. Geoff generously shared valuable insights and tips for translators preparing to sit for the ATA Certification Test. This interaction was just one example of the knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities that were abundant at ATA64Miami.

The Homeland Language Services booth at the conference was a hub of activity, where our CEO, Christian Lanazca, COO, Ernesto Lanazca, Contract Manager, Florencia Gomez, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Virguit Chumacero, and Vendor Operations Supervisor, Hussein Lanazca engaged with numerous attendees. The team had the chance to connect with industry peers, discuss potential collaborations, and establish new partnerships. Despite the hectic schedule, the Homeland team found this opportunity to be immensely enjoyable.

The importance of events like ATA64Miami in the language industry cannot be overstated. These gatherings serve as a catalyst for finding new partners, gaining fresh ideas, and showcasing your company on a larger stage.

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Homeland Language Services is a place of professional growth

Homeland Language Services is a place of professional growth, and we are happy to share today with you the success history of our Translation Department Manager, Martina Viegas.

We are sure that we need to give a voice to our employees. This way, we want to show our values not only in the corporate presentation or on our website but from real people who work in our company.

Join us and discover her career path with us, and how she grew in those years. Additionally, discover some useful tips for your career as a linguistic professional.

  • What did you like in your interpreting job? What were the challenges?

I started working here in December 2020 as an English-Spanish Interpreter, and it was a lovely experience. Still, it was also challenging because sometimes the native speakers do not use words or phrases as they should so it can lead to mistranslation, misinterpretation, misunderstanding, or even misrepresentation of facts. To avoid that we always have to be very clear for that, we have to clarify what is needed. This is very important for us, and this is the worst challenge I believe, but it is also a very good experience because you learn a lot and you have the opportunity of helping others. If you are not there, they are not able to understand each other so you are an excellent tool for them, you are very useful, and I believe this is the best thing.

  • How did you start your new career stage?

Some months after that I started working as a freelance translator for the translation department, so I really appreciate this opportunity. I believe I could grow a lot with this project I started receiving. One year and a half after that I became part of the staff, so I became the linguist quality coordinator of the translation department. I was grateful for that opportunity, and I was also grateful to my mentor Florencia Gomez, she taught me a lot of things, she taught me how to handle clients, how to handle projects how to handle meetings and translations, how to deliver good quality projects so I really appreciate her teaching me and including me in everything.

  • What skills helped you to get promoted to a new position? (or not skills)

Thanks to my mentor, a year after that, so now, in October 2023 I became the translation department manager and I am really grateful for this amazing opportunity I really like being here but I need to say that you don’t sleep, you don’t rest and this is something that comes when you do something you love, because you have to make a lot of effort to do it, you have to work hard, you have to patient, you have to be positive, you have to be resilient, because sometimes things can go wrong, but you have to be strong enough to say okay yes I made this mistake but I am strong enough to learn from that and continue going, I can keep going despite of that so I believe this is the best learning from each experience and becoming a better professional.

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National Immigrants Day at Homeland Language Services

National Immigrants Day is a time to reflect on the journeys, struggles, and triumphs of individuals who leave their homelands in search of a better or safer life. This day holds a special place in our hearts at Homeland Language Services, where we understand the significance of migration and the value of unity. As we commemorate this day, we also acknowledge the ongoing global situations, such as the wars in Ukraine and Israel, which continue to force people to seek refuge and new beginnings.

To shed light on this, we’d like to share the inspirational story of our Co-founders: Christian, Luis, and Ernesto Lanazca, and their family’s history of migration:

Luis and his brothers Ernesto and Christian, originally from Lima, Peru, hail from a family of 12 siblings, comprising seven sisters and five brothers. His father, Ernesto, spent a significant portion of his time working in distant mining camps in the Andes, with limited opportunities to be with his family except during his annual leave. These circumstances made life exceedingly challenging.

Their mother, Ines, emerged as the family’s cornerstone during these trying times. Drawing strength from her devout Catholic faith, she imparted her values and moral principles to her children. The family learned to navigate life on a tight budget, with Ines emphasizing that unity was the key to surmounting adversity.

The first significant turning point arose when the eldest sister in the family, Rose, discerned an opportunity to immigrate to the United States. After five years of diligent savings, she secured a plane ticket and embarked on a journey to a foreign land. Following her lead, two more sisters, Lucy and Giovanna, also undertook this journey, discovering not only fresh opportunities but also love in the United States. Their actions underscored the family’s deep-rooted belief that the family should always remain together.

However, a tragic event unfolded in 1988 when their father, Ernesto, succumbed to a sudden stroke. While it was an emotionally challenging period for the family, it served as a poignant reminder of the importance of unity. The three sisters who had gained U.S. citizenship remembered their family’s unwavering principle of supporting and assisting one another. To reunite the entire family, they pooled their resources and initiated the legal process to bring their remaining siblings and mother to the United States. This decision exemplified their commitment to preserving family bonds in the face of adversity.

Today, all 12 siblings, including their 92-year-old mother Ines, reside in the United States. Their story exemplifies the power of family, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life. The Lanazca family’s journey mirrors the experiences of countless immigrants who come to a new land in search of hope, safety, and the chance for a brighter future.

Global Challenges and Migration:

We must also acknowledge the contemporary challenges faced by immigrants worldwide. Events like the wars in Ukraine and Israel have displaced countless families, forcing them to seek refuge and a new beginning in foreign lands.

The global community must extend its support and compassion to those facing these hardships. The National Immigrants Day reminds us of the resilience, hope, and unity that characterize the immigrants’ experiences.

Homeland Language Services has a huge team of professionals who work remotely. We provide interpreting services that can be accessed from any city or state. The foreign-born individual can get the needed social service in his native language with the help of an Over-the-Phone Interpreter or attend a telemedical appointment with a doctor with the help of a Video Remote interpreter. These services are affordable and easy to use because the certified interpreter can be in touch at any time and in any place: just a device, like a smartphone or computer, is needed. Our services are available in more than 100 languages. Furthermore, our company has offices in California, Florida, New York, Texas, and other states, and we can provide onsite interpreting services as well. There are some cases when an interpreter offline is needed for the meeting. Homeland Language Services offers simultaneous and consecutive interpretations. Our services help immigrants to feel at home in the US.

Contact us to know more or follow us on social media platforms.

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Virtual Interpreters‘ Symposium highlights

On October 7th the organization Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta helped the Interpreter’s Virtual Symposium 2023. We were proud to support this special educational event for interpreters. One of our company goals is to enrich the knowledge of interpreters to provide the best quality services. The aim is one and only – to make communication easier in the whole world 🌎❤️

We were happy to reward our best interpreters with tickets for the Symposium – to refresh and discover something new for their profession 🤓

Important insights

There was a lot of interesting and useful information from each speaker at the Symposium. We want to share some vital insights we got at this education event. Michael Berrospi, Compliance & Training Manager, gathered some ideas to help you understand the valuable role you have as an interpreter. The reason why our clients provide this service and why our non-English speaking community needs us.

Why is the role of the interpreter so important?

  • Cancer patients are meant to receive accurate information about their disease, treatment, and ongoing care with their PCP and get up-to-date information in the amount of detail they want.

  • Patients are meant to fully understand their diagnosis to make an informed decision about their treatment.

  • Believing in a supreme being, in miracles, gives people the will to live, to get over, and to keep fighting. We must respect that as part of their culture, beliefs, and language. If a person wants to believe he is a bird, then that is fine if it works for them.

  • The social consequences of mental health and substance abuse problems are much greater than generally appreciated, quite large, and costly. It is estimated that at least a third of the adult population experiences some impairment due to behavioral problems such as anxiety disorder, alcohol dependence, and affective disorders.

  • Advocacy is the criteria to identify, prevent, and reduce discrimination. Nobody should be subject to any mistreatment, abuse, or segregation. Generally, we are subject to rules and regulations from our clients in terms of our intervention and it is your duty to find a good balance between overstepping any circumstances and overlooking any abuse.

  • Interpreters are the way to create an inclusive environment, tearing down any barriers that may leave anyone out. We are the bridge and reduce the unreal distance between a person and the benefits or services they are entitled to and we help eliminate any cultural, social, economic, and language gaps.

 

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World English Language Day: Insights from James Jones, Vice-President of Sales at Homeland Language Services

On the occasion of World English Language Day, Homeland Language Services is thrilled to bring you a special message from our Vice President, James Jones. This global celebration is a perfect backdrop for us to dive into the role of language services in promoting inclusive communication worldwide.

We asked James: What language means to you?

”We are a diverse company of employees here at Homeland Language Services. This gives us the ability to work with international communities daily.

Language is the bridge that connects us. Even though we speak many different languages, we can communicate together through common use of the English Language and also, when needed, through translation and interpreting.

Language is the way we can share our joys, successes, sorrows, pains, and disappointments, across Time Zones and Countries, Language brings us together.

We Thank You for being a part of our growing success here at Homeland Language Services. We Appreciate Your Interest, Partnerships, and Ongoing Support.

On World English Language Day we want to say how much your Communication means to Us and I Would Like to Thank You for Every One of our Media Followers.”

Homeland Language Services celebrates the profound impact of language in connecting people, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting understanding on a global scale.

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