Translating American The Vlog returns with a timeless story of resilience
An interview with Ibrahim Alkhaldi, certified Arabic-English translator, certified medical interpreter, and global communicator.
It is said that the best things in life are worth the wait. Meaningful and transformative content takes time to be conceived, cultivated, and brought to life.
This interview with Ibrahim Alkhaldi has been waiting to reveal his fascinating journey from his beloved Damascus to the United States. As a proud Syrian, Ibrahim translates the American culture through his unique experience as an expatriate who has found fulfillment and acculturation through his essence as an immigrant and linguist.
Ibrahim has discovered meaning through experiencing the freedoms afforded by American culture, where acceptance, tolerance, and hopes for a better life flourish daily. His story connects to the beautiful poetic traditions of his homeland, which echoes the spirit of renowned poet Nizar Qabbani (1923-1998) in his timeless work “This is Dimashq.”
Ibrahim Alkhaldi, proud Damascene, Arabic <> English linguist in the United States
The recipient of the American Translators Association (ATA)’s 2021 Mentoring Award, Ibrahim defines mentorship as a need for giving and receiving.
I guess mentoring is one aspect or one type of giving, and giving is one type of what we call the absolute or the good in a human being. For me, mentoring is a need. We need to ask others and we need to answer others. We need to ask for help and we need to help others, and on both sides we are winners.
Reciepient of ATA’s 2021 Mentoring Award
“Ibrahim’s beloved Damascus”
What do you think? How might mentorship transform your own professional and personal journey? What connections could you build today that might shape your tomorrow?
Listen to Ibrahim’s valuable advice for those aspiring to thrive and build their careers in the United States.
This first official edition of Translating American the Vlog brings a special unveiling of one of Marisol’s paintings, a colorful and ethnic-themed oil painting, featuring a fresh look of my brand VerasWords. Marisol’s illustration of me immersed in my passion for communications, languages, and cultures is an eloquent depiction of our beloved and distinctive Caribbean culture.
As a young immigrant and artist living in United States, Marisol translates the American culture through her talent and mastery of oil painting.
Marisol Ruiz Pereira, MICA Alumna and Puerto Rican artist in the United States
“Veras Words.” Oil Panel by Marisol Ruiz Peralta
What do you see?
Can your senses perceive in the painting the sun, the sea, and the architectural patterns of a bygone yet timeless Colonial Caribbean?
Listen to Marisol’s own words to discover these elements. Experience her precision, skill, and soul in revealing the black, white, and Taíno roots of my Dominican heritage.
