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Month: April 2025

Breaking Language Barriers: Professional Interpreting Services for a Variety of Scenarios

Hi, I’m A, one of North Star Language Services translators and interpreters. Today, I’ll provide a brief insight into the world of interpreting.

In addition to our translation services, which handle written materials, we also specialize in interpreting for spoken communication. Whether in person, through video conferencing, or via chat-based platforms, our interpreting services are adaptable to various settings.

Just like translation, interpreting requires an in-depth understanding of cultural differences, the nuances of each language, and the specific goals and objectives of each project, which can vary greatly. Some of the projects I have provided interpretation for include technical support, international academic symposiums, business meetings, and media interviews.

When interpreting between English and Japanese, it’s not just about translating words; it’s about understanding cultural contexts to avoid misunderstandings. The two languages are culturally distinct. For example, English often uses more direct phrasing, while Japanese incorporates many humble expressions that may seem unnatural when translated directly into English. Interpreters must navigate these nuances, ensuring clear and culturally sensitive communication for both parties.

Although technology continues to advance, automated interpreting and translation devices fall short in high-stakes situations where accuracy and an understanding of cultural nuance are critical. Whether it’s a delicate business negotiation or a sensitive conference discussion, professional interpretating helps ensure smooth communication and fosters trust among all parties involved.

Do you have a project that could benefit from professional interpretating services? Contact us to discuss your needs in more detail!

Interpreting for NOS Sport’s Winter Olympics Coverage with Olympic Gold Medalist Hiroyasu Shimizu

In November 2024, as the first blanket of snow covered Sapporo’s streets, signaling the start of winter, I had the opportunity to provide English and Japanese interpretation for the Dutch public broadcaster NOS Sport. The team was in town to gather footage ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, and I had the privilege of helping with their coverage. That particular day’s agenda included conducting an interview and shoot with Hiroyasu Shimizu, a former Japanese speed skating champion and gold medalist, and visiting key locations in the city closely connected to winter sports. Speed skating is incredibly popular in the Netherlands, and Mr. Shimizu is a well-known figure there.

Former speed skating champion and gold medalist Hiroyasu Shimizu

Sapporo, Hokkaido offered the perfect backdrop for a story about the Winter Olympics. It was host to the 1972 Winter Olympics, and many of the stadiums built for those events are still in use today, hosting everything from local competitions to world championships. As we toured the various venues from the Olympics, including the Makomanai Outdoor Stadium (now Makomanai Sekisui Heim Stadium), where the speed skating events took place, Mr. Shimizu opened up about his experiences as an Olympian. He shared the reasons behind his retirement from the sport and gave us a glimpse into his life after the Games.

Interpreting during an interview with Hiroyasu Shimizu
Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium—one of the shoot locations

Meeting an Olympic gold medalist isn’t something that happens every day, so I’ll admit I was a bit nervous at first. But Mr. Shimizu immediately put me at ease with his warm and friendly nature, making it easy to talk to him. Working together with the talented NOS Sport team, I helped facilitate communication during the formal interview and as Mr. Shimizu took us on a tour around Sapporo.

Midway through the shoot, we even shared some lighthearted conversation over Sapporo’s famous soul food—soup curry.

The NOS Sport journalist and cameraman trying soup curry for the first time

As the interpreter, my role was to act as a bridge between the broadcasting team and Mr. Shimizu. In addition to ensuring smooth communication, I had the unique opportunity to learn from someone deeply involved in the sport, gaining insights into the Dutch and Japanese speed skating scenes. It was truly an honor to be part of such a fascinating project. I would like to express my gratitude both to NOS Sport and Mr. Shimizu for this opportunity.

Interpretation is one of the services we offer at North Star Language Services. If you have a project that could benefit from our expertise, feel free to get in touch and we can discuss how we can help.

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