HKRAC is currently seeking interpreters who are fluent in English and Amharic, Arabic, Bahasa, Bengali, Dari, Farsi, French, Ewe, Hindi, Lingala, Nepali, Pashto, Punjabi, Somali, Sinhalese, Swahili, Tamil, Tigrinya and Urdu to assist with the intake of prospective clients and the testimony-taking of represented clients.
Interpreters must possess the following qualifications:
- Oral fluency in both English and the language of interpretation
- Sensitivity towards working with asylum seekers and victims of trauma and torture
- Ability to interpret in an impartial manner
- Ability to maintain all interpretations confidential
- Availability weekdays between 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Proof of work authorization or permission to volunteer in Hong Kong
What does interpretation for HKRAC involve?
Caseworkers interview prospective clients to determine the nature of their refugee claim and to determine whether HKRAC can help them. They also help clients write testimonies and prepare for their interviews before UNHCR.
The interpreter’s role is to facilitate communication between the caseworker and the client in each of their meetings.
Many refugees are victims of trauma and torture, and interpreters must be sensitive to working with this vulnerable population and be able to interpret in an impartial manner.
What is the time commitment for an interpreter?
HKRAC’s interpreters come into the office on an “as-needed” basis. They are expected to commit at least 3 hours a week for a minimum of 3 months. Interpreters also often help to translate relevant documents into English.
Training opportunities
If you are interested in assisting HKRAC with interpretation, possess the language skills but little or no prior experience, please contact Christal (cchan@hkrac.org) to find out about training opportunities.