Translation is more than just converting words from one language to another; it’s about bridging cultures, conveying emotions, and facilitating understanding. Roswitha Ginglas-Poulet, a seasoned translator and interpreter, has dedicated her life to this art, working with global figures and organizations. Her journey offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a translator.
A Journey Begins
Initially drawn to mathematics, Roswitha Ginglas-Poulet’s path took a turn when a friend encouraged her to study languages in Heidelberg. This decision led her to sign her first contract with the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey on May 15, 1973, where her career began to flourish.
Over the next three decades, she had the privilege of working with prominent figures, including four popes, the Queen of England, Bill Gates, and the Dalai Lama, while also participating in significant events like the Olympic Games.
Translating vs. Interpreting
Roswitha primarily serves as an interpreter, a role she describes as distinct from translation. “Translating is writing, as in a publication,” she explains. “Interpreting is oral.” This can take various forms: consecutive interpreting, where the interpreter speaks after the speaker has finished, or simultaneous interpreting, which is done in real-time, often from a booth.
Adapting to Change
Throughout her career, Roswitha Ginglas-Poulet has witnessed significant changes in the translation field, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI)
Despite the advancements in AI, there remains a strong demand for human translators and interpreters. Roswitha recounts an experience at a medical conference where an AI translation fell short. When a speaker switched to Bernese dialect, the reliance on technology proved inadequate, reinforcing the need for skilled interpreters.
The Future of Translation
In earlier years, many warned against pursuing a career in translation, predicting that English would dominate global communication. While that hasn’t happened, Roswitha finds herself hesitant to recommend the profession to young people today. “Just last week, I was asked to review a text translated by AI to make it appear as if it was a human translation,” she shares. “I refused.”
