What is your consulting philosophy? Empower translators and CiTs as I consult with teams. Empowering them is key for a consultant success

What translation resources do you really value? The knowledge of Biblical languages and the experience of the Bible land are invaluable resources in the translation process. I have witnessed the difference between having them and lacking them. 

How do you continue to grow as a consultant? A consultant grows in his work by learning from experienced consultants and by investing in CiTs. Attending gatherings (workshops, seminars, conferences) and networking with others are avenues for me to learn and grow.

How do you share your translation discoveries with others? The information is shared through BT channels in our organization, and in BT forums (BT Conference, SBL, etc)

Can you share about a time when you realized you were wrong and what you learned from it? When translators stand their ground and clearly explain their translation decision, I acknowledge it and seek for a better understanding of their language (linguistics, culture and the like). I make a note for the future. We always learn from our teams.

What are your top tips for someone starting on a career path in Bible translation? It depends whether the person is a translator or aspires to become a translation consultant. The paths are not the same, but are similar. Pursue a certificate or degree in Linguistics, Translation studies, Biblical Languages, and Bible Knowledge. Assessing the person's competencies and skills is a must if we need to help.

Share something that you learned from a mentor or from a mentee? From a mentor, I learned to listen and ask questions. How the mentor brings together the source texts, the translators, and the quality control is very important in tapping from his/her experience. From a mentee, I have to learn more of his world view, his language and culture in order to find a better approach to the mentoring process.

What do you see as the place of the church in Bible translation? The church is "Dynamic" and shape-changing depending on the community, and many other social, political and religious factors. However, the church is in fact the channel to provide the Scripture into the community. It is the gateway to access the community. The church carries Bible translation products to the community.

What would you say to young/ aspiring translators? Translators should know that beside being a "job", translation is also a ministry and a spiritual calling. Colossians 3:23 should be our guiding principle. 

Any other comments? Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts on this important part of the ministry of sharing the Good News to the nations.