Diplomatic interpretation is not always how you picture it. When most people think of diplomatic interpreting, they imagine the quiet, controlled environment of hush rooms, fancy palaces, or confidential talks. And yes, it’s mostly that.

However, sometimes, the reality can be quite different, especially when high-profile visits take place in bustling, unusual locations.

Take, for instance, my assignment as an interpreter to Ms. Christine Lagarde in September 2015, when she was Chair of the IMF, during her official visit to Tunisia. The task was anything but conventional. Alongside my twin sister and favorite partner, Sonia Hachicha, we navigated not just the usual high-stakes meetings with the highest level of the nation’s leadership in pristine conference rooms, but also impromptu walks (in heels!) through the cobblestone streets of Sidi Bou Said, the Medina of Tunis, and the historic Bardo museum.

Being selected for this job was a true honor and a recognition of talent and competence. And it certainly exemplifies the unique challenges of diplomatic interpreting in such dynamic settings. It’s not just about conveying words accurately with all the expected care and caution — it's also about adapting to changing environments, capturing the nuance of cultural interactions, and ensuring communication flows smoothly no matter the surroundings — and the shoes! Managing and carrying equipment through such varied settings added another layer of complexity, requiring us to stay sharp and flexible at every turn.

In these moments, the role of an interpreter becomes more than just a conduit for language. You become a bridge connecting diverse worlds, navigating both the formal and the informal with precision and grace.