Tag Archives: Agency For Translation Services

Celebrate French-American Heritage Month with us!

Bonjour! French-American Heritage Month is an annual observance that takes place throughout July in the United States. The month-long celebration aims to honor the historical ties between France and America, as well as the invaluable impact of French immigrants and their descendants on American culture, history, and society. Homeland Language Services, a trusted language services provider with a team of skilled French-English interpreters and translators, is delighted to shed light on the importance of this month-long celebration.

The French Connection: A Historical Perspective

The French have played a pivotal role in shaping the history of the United States. From the early explorers and fur traders who arrived in North America to the crucial support provided during the American Revolution, France’s influence on the nation’s birth cannot be overstated.

In the 18th century, figures like the Marquis de Lafayette and Rochambeau were instrumental in supporting the American cause for independence. Lafayette, in particular, became an iconic figure in the fight for freedom and democracy, forging a lasting friendship with George Washington that symbolized the strong bond between the two nations.

French Cultural Contributions to American Society

Beyond politics and history, French-American Heritage Month recognizes the significant cultural contributions made by French immigrants and their descendants. The rich tapestry of French heritage can be witnessed across various aspects of American life:

  1.  1. Language and Literature: The French language has left a lasting imprint on American culture, from culinary terms like “à la carte” and “soufflé” to everyday phrases like “bon appétit” and “au revoir.” French literature and philosophy have also had a profound influence on American thinkers and writers.
  2.  2. Art and Architecture: French artistic movements, such as Impressionism, have inspired American artists, while iconic French architecture styles have influenced American cityscapes, especially in New Orleans.
  3.  3. Cuisine: French gastronomy is celebrated worldwide, and the United States is no exception. French culinary techniques, pastries, wines, and gourmet delights have found a permanent place in American kitchens and restaurants.
  4.  4. Fashion and Design: Paris, the fashion capital of the world, has consistently influenced American fashion trends, with designers like Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Dior inspiring generations of American couturiers.

The Role of French-English Interpreters and Translators

As we celebrate French-American Heritage Month, it is crucial to acknowledge the crucial role of language services providers like Homeland Language Services. Skilled French-English interpreters and translators bridge the linguistic gap between these two diverse cultures, facilitating communication, understanding, and cooperation.

Whether it’s translating historical documents, legal agreements, or cultural materials, language professionals ensure that the essence of both French and American cultures is accurately conveyed, fostering stronger ties between the two nations.

French-American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and historical connections between France and the United States. It serves as a reminder of the shared values, ideas, and contributions that have shaped both societies. Homeland Language Services, with its team of dedicated French-English interpreters and translators, continues to play a vital role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

As the celebrations commence, let us take a moment to appreciate the beautiful blend of French and American culture that enriches our lives and inspires future generations. Joyeux Mois du Patrimoine Franco-Américain! Happy French-American Heritage Month!

Blog
, , , , ,

Three Years of Excellence: Celebrating Our Exceptional Business System Manager at Homeland Language Services

Alfredo Hernandez has been working at Homeland Language Services for three years already. This month we celebrated his anniversary together. Our team appreciates your hard work, professional expertise, loyalty, and support.
In honor of this event, we asked Alfredo to share his story about his career in our company:

“I met Ernesto Lanazca (COO & Co-founder) around five years ago when I started working as a shipping and receiving supervisor at another company. Ernesto was the manager of that department and my supervisor. We became friends almost immediately! After he left that company, he told me about a small company he and his brothers established. Ernesto said: “When the company grows a little bit more, I will call you because I want you to work with us.”

We kept in contact, and sometimes he asked me to make some reports for Homeland Language Services. Sometime later, Ernesto called me and told me he was ready to hire me. We discussed the details, and on June 1st of 2020, I started working at Homeland Language Services.

It was inspiring; I was happy to work with Ernesto again. I met Luis and then Christian, Charlie, and Abraham (just online, after a while, I met Luis and Charlie in person); it was the whole team then.

I designed many reports for the company they helped us grow, installed some CMS (Content Management System) websites, Like Moodle, to offer training sessions for our interpreters, a Helpdesk website, and an HR website, and updated the look of the company website.

The company is gradually growing, and now the main office team is bigger; we have around 1000+ interpreters and many more customers.

I am happy to be in the first flight and have had the opportunity to help the company grow.”

Blog
, , ,

Useful tips and life hacks for translators

Here are some useful tips and life hacks for translators from Homeland Language Services:

  1. 1. Build your specialized vocabulary: Focus on expanding your vocabulary in specific industries or subject areas to enhance your translation accuracy and efficiency. Stay up to date with industry terms and trends.
  2. 2. Stay organized: Develop a system for managing your projects, deadlines, and client communications. Utilize tools like project management software, calendars, and to-do lists to stay on top of your workload.
  3. 3. Create a glossary: Maintain a personal glossary of commonly used terms, phrases, and translations. This will serve as a quick reference guide and ensure consistency across your translations.
  4. 4. Use technology to your advantage: Explore translation software, CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools, and online resources to streamline your workflow and improve productivity.
  5. 5. Continuously learn and improve: Stay curious and dedicated to honing your language skills. Attend relevant workshops, webinars, and conferences to stay updated with industry best practices and language advancements.
  6. 6. Network with other professionals: Connect with fellow translators, linguists, and language professionals. Join industry associations and participate in online forums to exchange knowledge, seek advice, and find potential collaboration opportunities.
  7. 7. Develop subject-matter expertise: Gain a deep understanding of the industries or topics you frequently translate for. This will enhance your ability to accurately convey specialized concepts and terminology.
  8. 8. Proofread and edit meticulously: Always review your translations for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and overall coherence. Take breaks between translating and proofreading to ensure a fresh perspective.
  9. 9. Communicate effectively with project managers or clients: Establish clear lines of communication with your project managers/clients. Ask questions to clarify any ambiguities in the source text, and keep them informed about your progress and any potential challenges.
  10. 10. Take care of yourself: Translation can be mentally demanding, so prioritize self-care. Practice good ergonomics, take regular breaks, exercise, and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.

Remember, these tips are meant to guide you in your translation journey. Adapt them to your specific needs and style, and always strive for excellence in delivering high-quality translations. Best of luck with your work as a translator!

Blog
, ,

🧘‍♀️ Do you know that June 21 is International Yoga Day?

It is time to beat stress, ease back pain, and gain flexibility with these simple stretches and breathing exercises.

The majority of our clients, partners, employees, interpreters and translators work sitting. That’s why it is a great idea to have some practice every day to maintain mental and body health.

Try these eight beginner poses and share with us your feelings:
🙏 1 Easy Pose – Sukhasana – to Relieve Stress
Sit cross-legged on a yoga mat with your hands on your knees, palms up. Keep your spine as straight as you can. Push the bones you’re sitting on down into the floor — your “sit bones” in yoga-speak. Close your eyes and inhale.

🙏 2 Cat-Cow to Awaken the Spine and Ease Back Pain
Get on your mat on all fours with your hands directly below your shoulders and your knees directly below your hips. Distribute your weight equally between your hands and spread your fingers wide. Inhale and round your back, arching it up as you lower your chin to your chest; feel the stretch from your neck to your tailbone, like a cat. As you exhale, lower your back down all the way to a scoop shape as you lift your head, and tilt it back.

🙏 3 Tree Pose – Vrksasana – to Improve Your Balance
Start by standing straight for this pose. Bring your hands together in the prayer position and lift them over your head. Balance on your right leg. Bend your left knee out to the left side and press your left foot to the inner thigh of your right leg. Hold for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

🙏 4 Downward-Facing Dog – Adho Mukha Svanasana – to Enhance Flexibility
In Downward-Facing Dog, your body forms an inverted V-shape. Start by placing both hands on the mat in front of you, palms down; your hands should be slightly in front of your shoulders. Place your knees on the ground directly under your hips. Exhale as you lift your knees off the ground and lift your buttocks and hips toward the ceiling. Push the top of your thighs back and stretch your heels down toward the floor. Keep your head down between your upper arms and in line with them, not hanging down. If you notice your lower back rounding, try bending your knees to help lengthen your back.

🙏 5 Child’s Pose – Balasana – to Help You Relax and Unwind
From Downward-Facing Dog, simply bend your knees and lower your butt to your heels as you bring your chest toward the floor over your knees. Lower your shoulders and head to the floor. Place your arms along your sides, palms down, or you can support your head by folding your arms under your forehead. Breathe and relax for as long as you need to.

🙏 6 Baby Pigeon Pose to Open Up Your Hips
From all fours, move your right knee forward between your hands. As though you were doing a lunge, slowly straighten your left leg behind you, keeping the knee and top of the foot on the floor. Now rotate the right knee toward the right wrist and bring it down to the floor with your right calf flat on the floor and your right foot resting under your left groin. Lower your upper body over the bent leg, either all the way to the floor or resting on your elbows. Slowly inhale and exhale five times. Before you change sides, push back on your left leg to stretch the calf muscles. Repeat with your left leg bent and right leg extended.

🙏 7 Mountain Pose – Tadasana – to Improve Your Posture
Stand still, with your chest open and broad and your hands at your sides, and feel your feet on the floor and the sensations in your legs and back. Then analyze your posture in front of a mirror.

🙏 8 Legs-up-the-Wall Pose – Viparita Karani – to Restore and Revitalize
This is a great ending pose for beginners and those experienced at yoga alike. Lie on the floor with your butt right up against a wall. “Walk” your legs straight up the wall so that your body is in an L shape with your torso flat on the floor and perpendicular to the wall. You may want to place a rolled-up blanket under your lower back for support; keep your elbows out to the sides on the floor for additional support. Flex toes to feel a stretch in the backs of your legs. Breathe deeply and hold the position for as long as you like. To release, bring your knees to your chest and roll over to your side.

Blog
,

Celebrating Independence Day: The Resilience and Rich Heritage of the Philippines

As an international language services provider, we embrace and respect diverse cultures. Today, we join our Sales Manager, Stella Bautista, in celebrating this significant day – Independence Day in the Philippines.
She shares her heartfelt sentiments about the occasion. Join us as we explore the spirit of resilience that defines the Filipino people and the rich history that has shaped their identity.

Stella is talking about this day:
“During Independence Day, we put the Philippine flag on our doorstep and attend a public flag ceremony in the city hall. It is also a good day to go to the National Museum to learn more about our rich history.
I love how Filipinos are resilient. I think that’s why we got our independence because we persevered. From 300 years of being colonized by Spaniards, then the USA, and then by the Japanese, we never gave up. We adapted and used different ways to fight for our freedom. Some used poetry, such as Jose Rizal. And arts through Juan Luna’s “Spolarium.” It’s not all blood and tears, we used our talents too.”

One of the highlights of the day is the public flag ceremony held at city halls nationwide. Filipinos gather together, hand over heart, as the flag is raised to the sound of the national anthem. This collective act of patriotism exemplifies the unity and shared aspirations of the Filipino people. It is a powerful expression of gratitude for the freedom that was achieved through perseverance and unwavering determination.

The Philippines, a nation known for its vibrant culture and resilient people, has a rich history that culminated in its Independence Day. Over the course of 300 years, the Philippines endured colonization by various foreign powers. First came the Spanish, who arrived in the 16th century and ruled until the late 19th century. Following Spain’s defeat in the Spanish-American War, the United States took control of the Philippines in 1898. However, the Filipino people’s longing for self-rule persisted, leading to the Philippine-American War from 1899 to 1902. Finally, on June 12, 1898, the Philippines declared independence, led by President Emilio Aguinaldo. The road to independence was paved with the bravery of heroes like Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio, who inspired a sense of national identity and fought for their country’s freedom. Today, Independence Day serves as a reminder of the Filipino people’s resilience, their unwavering determination to overcome adversity, and their continuous pursuit of liberty and self-determination.

We honor the spirit of resilience that defines the Filipino people. Their unwavering determination and ability to adapt in the face of adversity allowed them to triumph over centuries of colonization.

Blog
, , ,

Remembering and Honoring: Memorial Day – A Tribute to Our Heroes

On May 29th, we come together as a nation to pay tribute to the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces. Memorial Day holds a special place in our hearts at Homeland Language Services, a time when we reflect on the profound significance of this solemn observance.

Memorial Day is an opportunity for us to honor and remember the brave individuals who have served our country while reflecting on their sacrifices. This day is a great honor for our team as well. Our leader, COO & Co-founder Ernesto Lanazca is a veteran of the US Army. He enlisted in the US Army in August 2000.

With his wealth of experience and deep appreciation for the values that Memorial Day represents, Ernesto provides us with a unique perspective on the true meaning behind this national holiday. Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the sacrifices, patriotism, and gratitude that permeate the essence of Memorial Day.

Ernesto, in your opinion, what are the main values Homeland Language Services is bringing to the market as a Veteran-Owned Business? 

As a US ARMY Veteran, to this day, I’m still working under the Army Code Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Services, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.

At Homeland Language Services we treat each other as a big family, sharing the same values; work ethics, respect, clear communication, teamwork spirit, trust in each other, accountability, and the commitment to meet the same goals.

How can language services affect the daily life of veterans and their families?

The United States of America is one of the few countries in the world to have enlisted US Citizen soldiers with different backgrounds, ethnicities, and religious beliefs, creating a multicultural military community with ESL status.

This situation creates a need for Interpretation & Translation Services to assist the military’s family members to interact within their military bases.

Our company has a wide range of language services. What is your favorite service and why?

Our company offers a wide variety of Interpretation and Translation Services for more than 120 languages worldwide through Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), Onsite Interpreting, and Over-the-phone interpreting (OPI). My favorite service is Onsite interpreting.

Many clients appreciate the presence of an onsite interpreter. During a conversation, the interpreter can see the speaker and the other party and can read the body language of the two people. The interpreter can see if the client shows signs of confusion or difficulty in comprehending the instructions and needs further clarification. Reading body language is very important for effective communication, especially when they feel shy or intimidated due to their lack of proficiency in the language.

However, one of the big disadvantages of onsite interpretation is the lack of time and resources. There are instances when an interpreter is not available. This is the advantage of OPI over onsite interpreting services. Onsite interpreters normally have higher hourly rates.

Blog
, , , , , , ,

📚 Unraveling the Tapestry of Translation and Interpretation 🌍

Did you know that the art of translation and interpretation has been shaping our world for centuries? Let’s dive into a captivating historical tale that showcases the power and impact of language mediation. 📜✨

In the bustling city of Alexandria, Egypt, during the 3rd century BCE, a renowned institution known as the Library of Alexandria stood as a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment. Among its many treasures were the translators and interpreters who played a vital role in bridging cultures and facilitating intellectual exchange.

One of the most celebrated figures in this ancient hub of translation was the legendary scholar, Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Recognizing the importance of multilingualism, he embarked on an ambitious project to gather texts from around the world and have them translated into Greek, the lingua franca of the time.

Under his patronage, a team of talented linguists and scribes worked tirelessly to translate works from languages as diverse as Egyptian hieroglyphs, Aramaic, Sanskrit, and Persian into Greek. This monumental effort not only preserved invaluable knowledge but also allowed the works of thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Euclid to transcend language barriers and inspire generations to come.

Another fascinating historical chapter lies in the realm of interpretation, particularly during the Silk Road era. As ancient trade routes connected distant civilizations, interpreters became invaluable intermediaries, facilitating communication between merchants, diplomats, and travelers hailing from different cultures.

These interpreters possessed not only linguistic prowess but also a deep understanding of cultural nuances and diplomatic protocol. They played a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding, resolving conflicts, and forging economic and political alliances.

From the legendary interpreters of the Tang Dynasty in China to the multilingual scholars of the Islamic Golden Age, the history of interpretation is brimming with tales of individuals who broke down language barriers, fostered cross-cultural dialogue, and contributed to the exchange of ideas that shaped our collective heritage.

As we celebrate the rich tapestry of translation and interpretation, let us remember the dedicated individuals throughout history who have devoted their lives to bringing people together through the power of words. 🌐💫

Tell us, have you ever experienced the transformative impact of translation or interpretation in your own life? ✨

Blog
, , ,

🚀May the Fourth be with You!

On May 4th, fans of the epic tales from a distant, magical galaxy come together to celebrate what has become known as Star Wars Day. This date was selected by fans as a day to honor the films and universe created by George Lucas, due to its connection with the iconic Star Wars catchphrase, “may the force be with you.”

We asked our team if somebody likes the Star Wars Universe.
Our Homeland Language Services Call Center Operations Supervisor Alejandro Olivero commented on this day in the calendar:
“I really love it because it is not only an action movie, it also involves politics and has a lot of depth in its history. It is a really rich universe.

I am a hardcore fan although I don’t get to the point of dressing up like Chewbacca. This doesn’t mean I wouldn’t look good in that suit.

I have seen these movies in several languages. I began with the original trilogy in Spanish, then the second trilogy I saw in English. All the rest have been either in German or English too. Except for The Clone Wars comics that were in Spanish also.

Unfortunately, I won’t make the movie night today, but as a sure thing I will see something from the catalog on the weekend.”

Whether or not you are familiar with the Star Wars franchise, there are fascinating elements to explore within its fictional world. Here we will delve into the intersection of languages and the Star Wars Universe.

Localizing Star Wars for a global audience presented numerous challenges, particularly regarding the use of fictional languages such as Aurebesh, Huttese, and Shyriiwook. These languages were created specifically for the Star Wars universe, and their usage required close collaboration between linguists and filmmakers to ensure that the dialogue made sense when translated into other languages. For instance, in the German version of the films, the term “Force” was translated as “Macht,” which means “power” or “strength,” to reflect the concept of the mystical energy that can be harnessed by Jedi Knights.

Adapting cultural references and humor was also a crucial aspect of localizing Star Wars. The films are rife with American pop culture references and humor that may not translate well across different countries. For instance, in the French version of the film, the character of Han Solo was portrayed as more cynical and sarcastic, reflecting the French cultural stereotype of a rebel. In contrast, the Japanese version of the films emphasized the Jedi’s honor and duty, which aligns with a central value in Japanese culture.

Localizing the Star Wars films for different audiences also required adapting some of the visual elements. In the Chinese version, for example, Darth Vader’s appearance was modified to resemble a traditional Chinese warrior. This was an attempt to make the character more relatable to Chinese audiences and emphasize his intimidating presence.

The localization process for Star Wars was a complex and challenging task that necessitated careful attention to cultural differences and subtleties. The translators, linguists, and filmmakers involved had to strike a balance between accuracy and faithfulness to the original films and making the movies relatable and accessible to audiences from various regions and cultures. Despite these obstacles, the Star Wars franchise has enjoyed worldwide success and continues to enthrall audiences across the globe. And that’s also a reason why we, as a language services provider, are fond of Star Wars Universe. We see this enormous work of translators, and interpreters and we are proud that we serve the world languages as well.

By the way, since its premiere in 1977, the Star Wars films have been translated (and localized!) into over 50 languages.

Blog
, , , , ,

Hey! Did you think we’d miss this day? International Harry Potter Day? No way! ⚡️⚡️⚡️

International Harry Potter Day is a beloved celebration amongst Potterheads worldwide, bringing joy and merriment on May 2. This special day was officially designated as an international holiday by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron in recognition of the outstanding literary achievements of J.K. Rowling. Despite more than a decade has passed since the final book in the series was released, the passion and enthusiasm surrounding the magical world of Harry Potter and its unforgettable characters remain as strong as ever.

Why May 2, you ask? This date holds significant historical importance as it marks the anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts, the final and most intense conflict of the Second Wizarding War. Taking place within the walls of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, this pivotal moment saw the Order of the Phoenix emerge victorious over the dark forces of Lord Voldemort, bringing an end to the war and ushering in an era of peace. However, the battle resulted in numerous casualties, forever commemorated on this solemn but inspiring day.

We also celebrated Harry Potter Day in our company! We have two Potterheads on the team 😊

Solana Petrecca, Talent Acquisition Specialist:

“When I was a kid, everyone loved Harry Potter. I went to the movie theater to watch the whole series with my mom and little brother throughout the years, but it wasn’t until later in life that I started grasping the whole story. When I moved to the United States, my host family was a Potterhead and kept talking about the different houses, guessing which one was mine. They always encouraged me to read the books as they loved them when they were kids… at the end, I ate up the first three books in less than a week. From then on, I became fascinated with the Wizarding World. Go Ravenclaw!🦅💙”

Yomna Elkhiamy, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist:

“I was 12 when I went to the Cinema for the first time on my own and the movie was “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. I remember being so fascinated with every detail and I didn’t want the movie to end since then Harry Potter is part of most of my childhood (and adulthood) memories. I watched all the movies on the first day they showed at the cinema and bought all the CDs and even downloaded them on my computer just in case. I also read all the books in both Arabic and English versions of Gazillions times and got so attached to the point of crying so hard when Dumboldor died and was so happy and nostalgic when I watched the reunion. I even went to England specifically to visit the HP Studios and got the elder wand. Whenever I felt sad or bored or just wanted to escape the world, I grab any book of them and instantly I travel to the fascinating and magical world of Harry Potter.”

Blog
, , ,

Language services help volunteers do their work

National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of volunteers around the world and to recognize the important role that language services play in supporting these efforts. Volunteers are critical to many organizations, from nonprofit groups and community associations to international aid organizations and disaster relief efforts. They provide essential services, from teaching literacy skills and providing healthcare to distributing food and supplies to those in need.
However, volunteering can be challenging, especially when language barriers exist. This is where language services come in. Interpreters and translators play a crucial role in helping volunteers communicate effectively with the communities they serve, and in ensuring that important messages are conveyed accurately and effectively.
There are countless examples of how language services have helped volunteers make a difference around the world.

📍For instance, during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, interpreters and translators played a critical role in helping international aid organizations communicate with local communities about the disease and how to prevent its spread. Without these language services, it would have been much more difficult for aid workers to deliver life-saving information and services to those in need.

📍Similarly, in refugee camps around the world, interpreters and translators help volunteers communicate with people from a variety of cultures and language backgrounds. They ensure that refugees receive the support and assistance they need, from medical care to legal aid to educational services.

📍In the United States, language services have helped volunteers in a variety of contexts, from working with immigrant communities to supporting disaster relief efforts. For example, after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, interpreters and translators helped volunteers communicate with residents who spoke a variety of languages, from Spanish to Vietnamese to Haitian Creole. These language services were essential in ensuring that volunteers could provide aid and support to those who needed it most.

📍During the Covid-19 pandemic, interpreters and translators have played a critical role in helping healthcare workers and volunteers communicate with patients and their families. For example, in the United States, language services have helped healthcare providers communicate with non-English speaking patients who can’t read or understand Covid-19 prevention and treatment information in English. In addition, interpreters have helped public health officials communicate with communities that may be hesitant to receive Covid-19 vaccines due to language or cultural barriers.

📍In the aftermath of the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, interpreters and translators have been essential in helping international aid organizations communicate with local communities. For example, language services have helped volunteers communicate with Ukrainian refugees who have fled the conflict and are seeking shelter and assistance. Additionally, interpreters have helped volunteers navigate complex legal and bureaucratic processes to ensure that refugees receive the support and services they need.

In all of these contexts, language services have made a critical difference in the success of volunteering efforts. They have helped to break down language barriers, build trust between volunteers and the communities they serve, and ensure that important information is communicated effectively. As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, it’s important to remember the important role that language services play in supporting these efforts and to recognize the contributions of interpreters and translators around the world.

Blog
, , , ,