Language & Belonging: Silvia Xalabarde on Community & Human Rights
Sometimes, the moments that feel like setbacks become the catalyst for lasting change.
In this episode of Connected Conversations, Silvia Xalabarde shares how a negative experience with a certification exam in 2012 became the turning point that led her into leadership, advocacy, and systemic reform within Canada’s language professions.
Today, Silvia serves as President of both the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC) and the Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia (STIBC) — roles that allow her to influence how language professionals are trained, assessed, and supported nationwide.
From Personal Frustration to Collective Reform
Rather than disengaging after her certification experience, Silvia chose to step in. Over several years, she worked with colleagues to redesign exam processes — making them more transparent, fair, and constructive by introducing feedback mechanisms that respect candidates as professionals, not just test-takers.
Her story is a reminder that systems change when people who’ve been affected by them stay involved.
Language Access Is a Human Right
A central theme in this conversation is the reality that language access can be a matter of life and death.
Silvia discusses a tragic case in Vancouver in which a Colombian woman experiencing a mental health crisis was killed by police after no human interpreter was called — only Google Translate. The story underscores why professional interpreters are essential in emergency, healthcare, and mental health settings, where nuance, trust, and empathy cannot be automated.
Technology, With Humans in Charge
Silvia brings a grounded perspective on AI in translation and interpreting. She supports using technology for efficiency — but draws a clear line when stakes are high.
Her position is simple:
Humans must remain in charge, not just “in the loop,” in complex and critical interactions.
Building Community Beyond Language Services
Through her Vancouver-based company Pluma Translations and Community, Silvia expanded beyond traditional translation services to offer English classes, psychological counseling, and social events for newcomers.
Her belief is clear: helping immigrants maintain high expectations for themselves — and giving them tools to succeed — benefits society as a whole.
Final Reflection
At the heart of this episode is a powerful idea: language doesn’t just transmit information — it shapes identity, belonging, and possibility.
Silvia’s work reminds us that when we invest in people, connection, and fairness, we don’t just improve systems — we transform lives.
🎧 Watch/Listen now to this thoughtful, human conversation on leadership, reform, and the meaning we create together.
