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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Lost in Translations: Nothing Should Be Lost. 🚫 The Crucial Role of Certified Medical Interpreters in Healthcare

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, where every second counts, accurate, clear, and timely communication can be a matter of life and death. Unfortunately, in a diverse and multicultural society like ours, language barriers can be significant roadblocks to effective healthcare delivery.

This is where certified medical interpreters step in as unsung heroes, bridging the gap between language and care.

At Homeland Language Services, we understand the critical importance of certified medical interpreters. Their role is not just about interpretation; it’s about ensuring that nothing is lost in translation, and here’s why:

✅ Accuracy: When it comes to healthcare, precision is non-negotiable. Medical terminology is intricate and can vary from one language to another. A certified medical interpreter undergoes rigorous training to master these nuances, guaranteeing that every medical term and detail is conveyed with unwavering accuracy. This precision can mean the difference between an effective diagnosis and a misunderstanding that could lead to harm.

🤝 Cultural Sensitivity: Healthcare isn’t just about diagnoses and treatments; it’s also about understanding the unique needs and beliefs of each patient. Certified medical interpreters are not just language experts; they are also well-versed in cultural sensitivity. They respect the diverse backgrounds, traditions, and values of patients, ensuring that healthcare providers can provide care that aligns with the patient’s cultural context.

⏱️ Timely Communication: In healthcare, time is often of the essence, especially in emergencies. Certified medical interpreters are trained to provide rapid, on-the-spot communication. They understand that delays in conveying critical information can lead to dire consequences. With a certified interpreter by your side, there’s no room for misunderstandings or delays when every second counts.

🔐 Confidentiality: Your medical information is personal and confidential. Certified interpreters adhere to strict confidentiality standards. Patients can share their health concerns and medical history knowing that their information remains secure and private.

The role of certified medical interpreters cannot be overstated. They are the linchpin in ensuring that every patient, regardless of their language or cultural background, has equal access to quality healthcare. They bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that no vital information is lost in translation.

At Homeland Language Services, we’re dedicated to providing the clarity and precision that certified medical interpreters bring to the table. Your well-being is our priority, and we believe that in healthcare, nothing should ever be lost in translation. Choose the expertise of certified medical interpreters and experience the difference in healthcare delivery.

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Translator: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance

Join us in celebrating Translation Day, dedicated to the incredible work of language professionals worldwide. On this special occasion, we recognize the power of words in bridging cultures and fostering understanding. And our brilliant Translation Team. Proceed reading this article about our Translation department’s team.

But first, let’s answer the question – why do we celebrate this day?

– Because that is the feast day of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translation. He studied the Hebrew bible and translated it into Latin. Martin Luther did not approve of Jerome’s beliefs, but even he could not deny the volume of work that had been accomplished. Luther recognized his contribution by saying that St. Jerome had done more for translation than anyone had or ever would. Without his strong work ethic, the bible would never have been translated as accurately, and in turn, English bibles may have been changed completely.

St. Jerome may have done the most work on the bible, but he is not the only important translator. There have been many translators who have shaped the way the world understands classic literature, and this work continues today.

To understand more about the importance of this day, we spoke with Florencia Gomez Homeland Language Services Translation & Localization Department Manager, and with Martina Viegas Homeland Language Services Linguist Quality Specialist.

– What inspired you to become a Translator?

Florencia: I started learning English at the age of 5, by myself. And as a teenager, I started translating books and songs. (yeah, I was a fan of Guns n’ Roses) and I loved reading the story of Titanic. When I finished high school, I decided to become a doctor but for some reason, I was diverged from that path and my love for this colorful language got me into the University.

Martina: I started my English studies when I was 4 years old. And a later age, I got to the point where I didn’t want to pursue my studies, but my parents encouraged me to keep studying English. When I grew up and was in the last school year, I suddenly went into labor, and that’s how I knew I was pregnant. Unfortunately, and also by fortune, I thought my only option was to pursue the Translator’s degree. Then, I got to know that my daughter had a disability, and I was left alone with her. Being a single mom of a disabled girl at a very young age was the worst and most challenging thing I’ve ever had to experience.

– What are the important skills of a good project manager to ensure a smooth process of project implementation?

Florencia: To perform well, you have to be attentive to detail, and extremely organized, you must develop good skills to relate to your clients and co-workers but also you must prepare yourself to solve problems on the spot, not miss any deadlines, always have a Plan B at hand the very moment you receive your project. Always trust your team, and don’t do things on your own, there will always be a lower risk of failure if you work together.

Martina: Professionally speaking, start working on organization skills, teamwork, leadership, communication, negotiation, team/time/risk/budget management, motivation skills, and critical thinking, and you will be ready to be a project manager. These skills are also helpful in our personal lives: who is an excellent money administrator or who communicates effectively even when driven by our worst feelings? Don’t be afraid of challenging yourself and challenging the system!

– What advice do you have for others who may be interested in pursuing this career path?

Martina: The key is to not stop dreaming once we reach the goal. Be strong enough to make the best effort to set and achieve your goals, and then set new goals but never settle. Be grateful because you are who you are because of everything you live.

Whether it’s celebrating International Translators’ Day, exploring the rich legacy of language, or embarking on a personal and professional journey, one thing is clear—language can transform lives. It’s a tool for connection, understanding, and growth. So, embrace your dreams, challenge the system, and never stop learning because, in the world of translation, the possibilities are endless. Happy International Translation Day!

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Homeland Language Services Celebrates International Sign Languages Day

On September 23rd, we joined the global community in celebrating International Sign Languages Day. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and inclusivity, highlighting the rich tapestry of sign languages that exist worldwide. At Homeland Language Services, we are dedicated to promoting understanding, communication, and unity through language, and today, we extend our heartfelt support to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities across the globe.

Sign languages are not just modes of communication; they are the lifeblood of a vibrant and thriving community. They bridge the gap between individuals who have different hearing abilities, offering a unique window into the rich cultural traditions and shared experiences of Deaf individuals.
On this day, we take a moment to recognize the significance of sign languages in preserving heritage, fostering connections, and breaking down barriers.

In line with our commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and accessibility, we are honored to share a message from our President and Co-founder, Luis Lanazca:

“We should consider that ASL goes beyond mere language conversation. It needs to be done with care and requires that the assigned interpreter be an appropriate, culturally competent fit for the individual receiving the Sign Language Support. So, going beyond knowing Sign Language, it’s also important to be a part of the community we’re serving or have an authentic connection and investment in it. This element makes all the difference in an interpretation assignment.

According to the National Census of the Deaf Population, more than half a million people in the US use American Sign Language (ASL) as their native language. ASL interpreting is a specialized field with a limited number of interpreters available, approximately 10,000 in the US. When we consider the requirements of both rural and busy metropolitan areas of the country, we realize that a limited number of individuals have to cover a lot of ground. This includes dividing their time between different agencies, locations, news events, as well as healthcare and educational settings.”

At Homeland Language Services, we continue to provide language solutions that empower individuals and organizations to communicate effectively across languages and abilities.

We encourage everyone to take a moment today to learn more about sign languages and engage with the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Together, we can build a more inclusive world where every voice is heard and valued.

Happy International Sign Languages Day!

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