Creating Equity Through Community Translations
- Selena J
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Conversations with MCIS Language Solutions Translators
"We are lucky to have several official languages (English, French, and many First Nations and Inuit languages) in Canada. I am proud to be a part of promoting access to the French language and to French language services in Canada." - Tanjah Karvonen
While International Translation Day falls on September 30th, its impact resonates well beyond that date. This occasion recognizes translators and interpreters who help make our world more inclusive, interconnected and empathetic.
Translation goes far beyond simply changing words; it’s about preserving intent, capturing subtle meanings and making sure everyone has a voice.
From legal documents to community outreach and literature, translators enable understanding across diverse contexts.
This year’s theme, “Translation, shaping a future you can trust,” reminded us of the vital role language professionals play in building inclusive communities and fostering global collaboration.
Voices from the Field
In celebration, the LACC Core Team engaged with language professionals from MCIS Language Solutions, highlighting the crucial role of access to language in promoting equity. Through their efforts in healthcare, justice, education and civic services, they equip translators with the training to elevate their social purpose and help bridge gaps in healthcare, justice, education and civic life—making sure no one is left behind because of the language they speak.
Paloma Cordova
Meet Paloma Cordova—an English–Spanish translator whose work reflects the heart of equity and inclusion
“I help ensure that essential information is available in the language people understand best. Language equity means making sure no one is left out because of the language they speak.” - Paloma Cordova
She kindly shares her knowledge that translation is about more than just swapping words—it's about making sure important information is accessible in the language everyone understands best. Her passion really helps create inclusive spaces where no one gets left out because of the language they speak.
She emphasized how translation contributes to social impact and language equity:
“Working in this field has helped me grow not only as a professional, but as a woman who believes in equity. I’ve learned the power of words and the impact they can have when used to include, respect and connect.” - Paloma Cordova
Thank you, Paloma, for reminding us that language is a wonderful bridge to help us feel seen, valued and connected!
Supreeti Singh
Next we spotlight Supreeti Singh—an immigrant, interpreter, translator and advocate whose journey embodies the power of language to uplift and connect.
“Coming to Canada as an immigrant woman myself, I understood firsthand the challenges faced by those who struggle to express themselves in a new language. This awareness has shaped how I approach my work: with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a strong commitment to equity.” - Supreeti Singh
Supreeti began her career with a Master’s Degree in Psychology from India and completed the Interpreter Training Program with MCIS. She has worked as a professional interpreter and translator for Punjabi and Hindi across the Greater Toronto Area. Today, she is a Licensed Paralegal and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), running her own legal and immigration practice.
“Throughout my career, I’ve remained deeply committed to using my language skills to empower and advocate for people who often face barriers due to limited English proficiency, particularly women, refugees, seniors, and newcomers.” - Supreeti Singh
Thank you, Supreeti, for reminding us that translation is more than words—it’s a bridge to dignity, understanding and belonging.
Tanjah Karvonen
Meet Tanjah Karvonen—a trilingual editor, translator and linguistic reviewer whose work goes beyond words to create meaningful human connections.
“Each new translation project is an opportunity to learn something new—new content as well as new language skills.” - Tanjah Karvonen“
Tanjah comes from a French Canadian and Sámi Finnish background and grew up speaking French, English and Finnish at home. Her first official translation project was with the Addiction Research Foundation (now CAMH) while studying French and Spanish translation, literature and linguistics at the University of Toronto. Over the next 26 years, Tanjah worked in educational publishing for Canadian and American companies, specializing in French, Spanish and Geography.
Today, Tanjah continues her passion for languages by learning Bahasa Indonesia with her son, Finnish with an MCIS colleague, and Portuguese after completing a beginner course through MCIS.
I feel strongly about reaching out to seniors and people living in long-term care who have lost the ability to speak English or who are New Canadians and possibly never learned English.”
She also leads the Birth Languages Program at AgeCare Trilogy, where volunteers engage with seniors in their native languages. Launched in April 2025 after she identified language barriers in her mother’s care home, she advocates for non-English speakers who have lost the ability to speak English and newcomers to stay connected to their roots, demonstrating her dedication to linguistic inclusion.
Thank you, Tanjah, for showing us how language learning can transform lives!
Language Access as Social Purpose
At MCIS Language Solutions, their mission goes beyond words. They strongly advocate that language access is a human right and a cornerstone of equity. Every translation and interpretation service they provide helps dismantle barriers, foster inclusion and empower individuals to fully participate in society.
By sharing these stories, we celebrate the translators who embody this vision—creating bridges where there were walls and ensuring that no one is left behind because of language. Together, we continue shaping a future you can trust, grounded in fairness, dignity, and connection.
Learn more about MCIS social purpose initiatives!
Join us in advancing language equity.
Interested in supporting language access initiatives? Connect with us to explore volunteer opportunities or partnerships. Share your own story or thank a language professional who has made a difference in your life.
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