Title: Report on Participation in the World Association of Sign Language Interpreters
Conference in Jeju, Korea (6-9 July 2023)
Name of reporter: DOAN PHUONG ANH
Position: Vietnamese Sign Language Interpreter
Organization: Psycho-Education and Applied Research Center for the Deaf (PARD Vietnam)

Introduction: The World Association for Sign Language Interpreters (WASLI) Conference
held in Jeju, Korea from 6th to 9th July 2023 was a significant event for me as a first-time
participant. This conference provided an invaluable platform for learning, networking, andgaining insights into the challenges faced by sign language interpreters (SLIs) worldwide.
This report summarizes my experience, key takeaways, and future aspirations based on myparticipation in the event.
Key Learnings:
1. Shared Challenges: The conference highlighted that SLIs from various countries facesimilar challenges, with the most common being the lack of professional training andrecognition. Many SLIs are perceived as volunteer-based interpreters, which impacts thequality and accessibility of interpretation services for the Deaf community.
2. Crucial Need for Deaf Interpreters: A significant emphasis was placed on the necessity ofDeaf Interpreters in bridging communication gaps between Deaf individuals and hearingindividuals. The conference underscored the importance of collaboration between Deaf andHearing interpreter teams to enhance the overall interpreting process.
3. Understanding the Role and Ethics of SLIs: The conference provided a comprehensive
insight into the multifaceted role of SLIs. Discussions emphasized the importance ofupholding ethical standards in interpreting, including confidentiality, impartiality, andcultural competence.
Networking and Inspiration: One of the most enriching aspects of the conference was theopportunity to meet and connect with like-minded interpreters from around the world.
Interacting with fellow SLIs allowed me to share experiences, exchange ideas, and gather
inspiration for my professional journey. The sense of camaraderie and motivation gained fromthis event has invigorated my commitment to the path I have chosen.
Pre-Workshop: Due to financial constraints, I regretfully could not attend the pre-workshop.
However, feedback from other SLIs who participated in the pre-workshop indicated that itwas a highly valuable session. The pre-workshop offered additional learning opportunities andallowed participants to establish meaningful connections with peers. I am keen to attend thepre-workshop at the next WASLI conference to further enhance my skills and experiences.
Future Aspirations: The knowledge and insights gained from the conference have encouraged
me to take a more proactive approach to my professional development. Inspired by theimportance of collaboration and the role of Deaf Interpreters, I am eager to implement thesebest practices in my future work as an interpreter. I am determined to uphold the highest
ethical standards in my practice and be a proactive advocate for the recognition andprofessionalization of sign language interpreting in my home country, Vietnam.
In conclusion, my participation in the World Association for Sign Language Interpreters
Conference in Jeju, Korea was a transformative experience that has left a lasting impact on
my professional journey. The valuable knowledge I acquired from esteemed speakers andfellow SLIs has not only enriched my understanding of the challenges faced by interpreters
worldwide but has also deepened my commitment to the Deaf community. I am grateful toNational Research Association for Sign Language Interpretation (NRASLI) for your support
in enabling my participation in this conference. As an expression of gratitude andcommitment to the field, I plan to share the knowledge and insights gained with fellow SLIs
in Vietnam. By disseminating the lessons learned, I hope to contribute to the advancement ofsign language interpretation in Vietnam and foster a supportive community of like-mindedinterpreters. Moving forward, I am excited to take on new challenges and continue learningand growing as an interpreter. The connections I made during the conference have inspired
me to embrace continuous improvement and stay connected with the global community ofSLIs. I look forward to future opportunities to attend WASLI conferences and engage infurther professional development activities that will ultimately benefit the Deaf communityand enhance the quality of interpreting services in Vietnam. Together, we can work towards
a more inclusive and accessible world for all.