A conversation with Cecilia, the Diplomatic Interpreter in London.

In October 2024 I had the pleasure of meeting Cecilia Lipovsek at the ATA Annual Conference in Portland, Oregon, United States. Cecy came a long way from London where she has been living for many, many years.

Cecilia shares her journey into becoming a diplomatic interpreter and all her way from Buenos Aires, Argentina to London. She shares with us what inspired her to pursue this unique and specialized field of interpretation.

There are some skills which are essential for someone aspiring to excel in the business of interpretation, in particular in diplomatic settings. The author and interpreter explains how to prepare and all the challenges she had to face, and how have she overcome them.

In her book Jump, she emphasizes personal growth and professional leaps. This is something we all do in a way, however not always successfully. Her own philosophy translates into building a successful career in interpretation.

Throughout the pages, I really loved the Four Pillars! My fav is to Plan your Journey. I too often fail in that first step… Please listen to this interview to learn the favorite one by the author herself!

Then, comes her book Welcome. There Cecilia talks about thriving in the communications world. Many interpreters focus solely on their craft. How important is it for interpreters to develop business acumen, and what are some strategies they can use to grow their practice according to Cecy?

In diplomatic interpretation, cultural nuances are often as important as language skills. How do you balance linguistic precision with cultural sensitivity in your work?

Thanks so much dear Cecy for inspiring us and many future generations to come to make the leap and move out of our confort zones!

¡Gracias Cecy! Sos un modelo a seguir para todas las futuras intérpretes y profesionales del idioma.

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