Hello, my linguists! I am Anthony Alencar, an interpreter in New York City. I am the new editor and creator of The Gotham Translator-what an honor!
Translating in New York is exciting and fun. This is a city of images; it films and photographs like no other does. But NYC is also a city of languages. It is the communication Mecca of the world. There are around 900 different languages spoken here. Yes, I said 900. Just walk around and you will hear and see Babel represented by the myriad of beautiful faces from around the world; this makes this city an awesome place for our profession.
I have worked with many African interpreters, admiring up close, their beautiful talents as translators with their imposing intonations. One of them knew the King of Angola, and called him on her phone so I could experience their culture even more. I was able to speak to him as we share the same language, Portuguese, and he mentioned a famous Brazilian actress whose grandmother was his “subject” in Angola back in the day.
I have also learned that when one hears Russians speaking on the streets of New York, one has the impression that they are speaking Portuguese, and vice-versa. It turns out that both languages share similar sounds. Incredible!
Not to mention the Indians, Bangladeshis, and their language divisions which I have also encountered. I work at gigs with wonderful Indian linguists and it is a privilege to ask and learn about their region, customs, and languages. India recognizes 22 official languages, plus dozens of other unofficial spoken languages. Their curry is also a plus!
And what to say about the incredible Arabs! While working with some of them for the New York Department of Education, I was able to appreciate their pharyngeal consonants and unique “r” sound–and going out for delicious Halal food after jobs.
I have no words to describe the lovely Asian New Yorkers and their poised and soft way of speaking. I met the most wonderful Japanese interpreter, Masa, who also happened to be a DJ. We interpreted all day together in a Psychiatric Ward in Jersey, and we felt right at home there, like sake and sushi.
So, through the Gotham Translator, I hope to share some personal experiences as well as collect, and publish, important pieces from fellow NYCT interpreters and translators, in order to enrich our exciting profession, encourage other linguists and language enthusiasts, and create a community for all who are interested.
Thank you NYCT for the opportunity. A special thanks to our current president Viktoria Baum for giving me the green light and complete autonomy to care for The Gotham Translator.
For our June/July 2025 edition we bring you:
> A Special Interview with Viktoryia Baum by our contributing writer Sylvwia Ogrodniczak
> The Need for Language Access in Museums, by Ella Alencar
> A NY translator in Japan – Observations from a First Time Visitor, by Randal Gernaat
Also, stay tuned for some exciting events and news from the NYCT and our partner Institutions:
About Anthony:
With a background in sales, management and non-profit work, the language sector turned naturally into a career for Anthony. He has participated in various translation projects and interpretation assignments in New York City and abroad. He holds a BS in Leadership and a MA in Religious and Cultural Studies. Anthony is now serving the Board of the NYCT as Program Director and editor of the Gotham Translator, promoting activities to improve the lives and careers of our beloved language professionals.
Follow Anthony on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyalencar1/ and https://seventranslations.com/