What gets you excited when you work with others in Bible translation? What excites me the most about collaborating with others in Bible translation is the strong bond that forms between me and the community. This work often provides opportunities to build meaningful relationships with people, including both Christians and non-Christians from the language group being served. It’s a privilege to share the Word of God with them.  

Similarly, one of my greatest joys is witnessing unbelievers actively participating as reviewers in the translation process. Also, on many occasions, I have seen translators moved to tears as they grasp the meaning of a verse for the very first time when they read it in their mother tongue. Moments like these fill me with immense happiness and reassure me that my efforts are not in vain. I am confident that the translation will leave a lasting impact on the people and their community. 

What is your consulting philosophy? My consulting philosophy centers on the profound importance of cultural sensitivity. I hold the cultural context in high regard, striving to ensure that Biblical translations are not only accurate but also respectful, relevant, and acceptable within the target language. I firmly believe that the original Scriptures are divinely inspired, which compels me to deliver translations that faithfully convey their clarity and precision. 

What translation resources do you really value? I rely on various translation resources, but two stand out to me: the UBS Handbook (HBKENG) and SIL’s Translator's Notes (TN), particularly the Display. The latter is particularly noteworthy, as it's designed specifically for Mother Tongue translators and written in straightforward English, making it accessible to those with limited formal education. I've recommended it to numerous mother tongue (MT) translators, and they've expressed great appreciation for its clarity and usefulness. In fact, incorporating Translator's Notes into our workflow has significantly enhanced our team's progress. I look forward to seeing the Notes part of TN expanded to cover the remaining books of the Bible. Let's hope SIL receives the necessary support to complete this valuable project. 

How do you continue to grow as a consultant? As a Bible Translation Consultant for GILLBT, FCBH (Faith Comes By Hearing), and SIL, I engage in ongoing professional development through various opportunities. These organizations regularly host workshops and virtual meetings via Zoom, where seasoned consultants present papers and lead discussions, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Additionally, I stay current with the latest translation insights and best practices by accessing a wealth of resources on Logos, a comprehensive platform that provides access to a vast library of translation materials. Through these activities, I'm able to stay updated on new ideas and advancements in the field of translation.

Can you share about a time when you realized you were wrong and what you learned from it? As a Bible translation consultant, I've had moments where I realized I was wrong. Once I was collaborating with a team of translators working on the Ahanta language in Ghana's western region. As we checked the book of Deuteronomy, I was initially convinced that a particular phrase should be translated differently. However, as the process unfolded, I realized my suggestion was mistaken, and it became clear that the original phrasing proposed by the team was more accurate. I admitted my error, apologized, and took the opportunity to explain why their choice was the right one. This experience taught me that a consultant is not always infallible. It is crucial to approach such work with humility and a willingness to learn from the team.

What are your top tips for someone starting on a career path in Bible translation? Develop a deep understanding of the Bible by immersing yourself in its context, themes, and messages. A solid foundation in biblical history, theology, and the original languages, such as Greek or Hebrew, will greatly enrich the quality of your translation work.

Share something that you learned from a mentor or from a mentee? The most valuable lessons I’ve learned as a Bible translation consultant came from observing my mentor’s approach to community engagement. She highlighted that translation extends beyond linguistic accuracy. It is about fostering trust and building strong partnerships with the community. By actively listening to local speakers, honoring their cultural insights, and involving them in critical decisions. This experience taught me the importance of approaching the work with humility and recognizing the power of collaboration. Additionally, prayer plays a crucial role, offering a profound sense of connection to the mission while providing strength to navigate challenges along the way. 

What do you see as the place of the church in Bible translation? The church serves as a key hub for gathering resources, including funding, prayer, and skilled individuals. Many church members contribute their talents by serving as translators, consultants, or field workers. Churches play a vital role in reviewing and testing translations through their congregational use. This helps ensure the translations are clear, accurate, and faithful to the original scripture. After a translation is completed, the church is essential in promoting its use within worship, study groups, and personal devotion, ensuring its enduring relevance for future generations.

 What would you say to young/aspiring translators? Bible translation is one of the most meaningful endeavors, as it allows you to leave an enduring legacy for future generations.