As I sit at my desk, tracking the journey of my new book from Germany to Trinidad via Fedex, awaiting its arrival in Tobago, my mind is drifting away in a vortex of fond memories.
I have many memories of CARICOM meetings that I attended in my capacity as an Interpreter. Since Haiti became a full-fledged member of CARICOM in 2002, French <> English interpreting services are required. I recall interpreting for the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad in July 2013 which also marked the 40th anniversary of the Chaguaramas Treaty that established CARICOM in 1973.
Haitian President Michel Martelly was following the CARICOM discussions through his headset as my booth buddy and I speak into his ears. We alternate every 20 mins as the mental gymnastics required for simultaneous interpreting can drain your energy fast! It never ceases to amaze me how “clients” connect with the sound of the Interpreter’s voice. Our voice carries much more than sound. It reassures. It connects. It opens up a whole new world of meaning.
Today as I celebrate my newly released book “CARICOM: Good Offices, Good Neighbours”, I can see how the dots were divinely connected over all these years. What a scenic journey it has been… from the booth to a book!
Get your copy here:
https://www.morebooks.de/store/gb/book/caricom:-good-offices,-good-neighbours/isbn/978-620-0-27447-2
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