Your local translators and interpreters association probably needs you

What if I told you that the translation community needs someone like you?

Since 2022, I kept thinking about volunteering at the Brazilian Translators and Interpreters Association (ABRATES). I had the time, energy, and ideas, but never got in touch with them.

I was afraid they had all the hands they needed. I was afraid I didn’t have enough experience. I didn’t even know how I could help.

Not long ago, I realized I missed the sense of community like I had back in college. I missed following other people's journey. When I talked to colleagues, I saw that I wasn’t alone. Many of us wanted a space where translators and interpreters could share knowledge, build connections, and grow together, regardless of experience level. Something easy, fun, and free.

I started brainstorming ways to make it happen. The more I thought, the more excited I got. I had an idea, however, I didn’t have a platform. What if nobody was interested?

Of course, I went to my mentor, William Cassemiro. His advice stopped me from giving up: ‘Email the board of directors at the Brazilian Translators and Interpreters Association and tell them your idea,’ he said.

As a former ABRATES president, he explained there are usually many ideas floating around an association, but they need people to take the lead. And let’s not forget that it’s volunteer work. You do it because you believe in it, not because somebody asked you to or because you are expecting to gain something from it.

I was so scared. I didn’t want my idea to be rejected.

But when I finally took that step… ABRATES’ President Bruno Murtinho and Vice-President Carolina Ventura told me they tried something similar to what I had suggested but needed more people to make it happen. Then, they directed me to the amazing Andréia Manfrin and Alyne Azuma from the Editorial Translation Chapter at ABRATES.

✨ We got to work and just like that, the ABRATES Book Club was born. We are talking about translation, interpretation, and everything in between, one book at a time. If you speak Portuguese and want to be a part of the Book Club, you can sign up here. It’s online, free, and open to everyone, even if you are not an ABRATES member.

If I hadn’t sent out that e-mail, this would still be just an idea.

My point is that if you want and have the time to support your local translation and interpretation association, don't be afraid to reach out. They could use someone like you—someone with your knowledge, your passion, and your unique perspective.

You don’t need to devote 40 hours per week. Even one hour can make a difference.

And even if they don't need volunteers right now, they at least know that you are there. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

That's how I see things, and I hope it resonates with you. 💙