{"id":4774,"date":"2024-02-21T10:52:34","date_gmt":"2024-02-21T10:52:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/translatorswithoutborders.org\/blog\/?p=4774"},"modified":"2024-08-22T14:26:57","modified_gmt":"2024-08-22T14:26:57","slug":"linguistic-diversity-mother-language","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/translatorswithoutborders.org\/blog\/linguistic-diversity-mother-language\/","title":{"rendered":"Celebrating linguistic diversity and mother languages"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Sharing TWB community member stories from Nigeria <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On International Mother Language Day, we\u2019re celebrating the richness of linguistic diversity around the world, with a special focus on the TWB Community. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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We are proud to spotlight some of our 100,000+ community members. Each person brings their unique experiences and skills to their role as a language volunteer. And we all come together for a common purpose – to embrace the power of language and communication for a more inclusive and informed world.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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\"CLEAR<\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Embracing language and technology to change lives <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In parts of the world, as much as 90% <\/strong>of the population still do not have access to education<\/strong> in a language they speak or understand. Increasing numbers of children face migration and displacement<\/strong>, making language inclusion critical for their futures. Too many people face<\/strong> exclusion<\/strong> which is detrimental to their education<\/strong>, health<\/strong>, and livelihood<\/strong> opportunities<\/strong>, because of the language they speak.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At TWB<\/a> and CLEAR Global<\/a>, we\u2019re dedicated to bridging the language divide to create real, impactful change – better access and better communication. Thanks to TWB Community members worldwide, we\u2019re empowering marginalized language speakers to get and share vital information in the languages they speak. These powerful stories show the importance of communication and support in someone\u2019s mother language. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The power of language to unite us all<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hear from TWB Community members Okafor Nkechi and Chinwendu Peace Anyanwu from Nigeria. Learn about their experiences volunteering with the TWB Community to contribute to humanitarian and development projects that support their language communities. These translators have chosen to embrace the power of language and technology worldwide to bring impactful change – equal access to education, health, and climate change information for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About Okafor Nkechi, Igbo interpreter and translator in Nigeria<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cI am passionate about bridging linguistic gaps and ensuring effective communication between different language speakers. As a member of the TWB Community, I have contributed to projects aimed at improving language inclusion and accessibility. This work ensures that language is not a barrier to accessing vital information and services, particularly for marginalized communities who speak Igbo.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Okafor<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

What does it feel like to grow up learning a second language? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs a child, I learned in both Igbo, my mother language, and English, as a second language. Learning in a second language posed challenges such as understanding complex concepts and expressing myself fluently. However, through dedication and support, I overcame these obstacles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Growing up, I was exposed to a tapestry of my mother tongue which resonated deep within my soul. As I navigated through school, my love for languages grew stronger. I practiced speaking and writing in my mother tongue, and from that, I dreamed of a future where I could use my linguistic skills to make a difference in the world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Imagine a more equal future – no one left behind because of language<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOne day, while traveling in transit to another state, I saw two different people. One was speaking my mother language, Igbo, while the other was speaking English and it was so difficult for the old women to understand. They struggled to communicate with the missionaries who spoke only in English. Seeing the frustration and confusion on both sides, I felt a fire ignite within me. At that moment, I knew that I had found my calling to be a bridge between those worlds, to ensure that no one was left behind simply because of a language barrier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From that day on, I dedicated myself to mastering the art of interpretation. Being an interpreter was more than just a job, it was a passion, a way of honoring my roots and preserving my heritage. I hoped to inspire others to embrace the beauty of their mother tongue and recognize the power of language to unite us all.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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“My workspace” – Okafor<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Hope for inclusive education:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cInclusive education requires addressing language barriers by providing resources and support for students learning in their mother tongue or a second language. This can include bilingual education programs, culturally relevant teaching materials, and language support services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We can make education more inclusive by<\/strong> providing relevant, multilingual education resources, programs, and support for students and teachers. Where possible, we should make education as accessible as possible, whatever someone\u2019s language or communication needs. By training educators on inclusive teaching strategies and celebrating cultural diversity, we can both embrace and respect learners\u2019 identities and needs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mother language access – why is it important to your community? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAccess to essential services such as health, climate change information, and education in Igbo is crucial for effective communication and understanding within the community. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions and promotes cultural preservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accessing important communications in my mother language, Igbo, is vital for several reasons: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n