I have lived much of my life between languages by interpreting conversations that shaped policy, calmed tensions, and sometimes, in the quietest moments, changed lives. Yet, what has defined my journey most is not just the words I have translated, but the silences and subtleties between them — the pauses, glances, and cultural context that often speaks louder than the literal meaning.

I was born in Brazil, where language is expressive and communal, and raised in Europe, where it is precise and intentional. That juxtaposition shaped me early. I learned not only to speak multiple languages, but also to think in multiple cultural systems. Over time, this became more than a skill; it became almost like a philosophy of connection.

Today, as a cultural strategist, interpreter, and global diplomacy advisor based in California, I share the lessons that others can apply to their own multilingual journeys, whether in boardrooms, courtrooms, classrooms, or community centers.

1. Interpretation Is Not Translation; It Is Transformation.

Early in my career, I believed that mastery of vocabulary and grammar would make me an excellent interpreter. But in one of my first diplomatic assignments, that theory was tested. A delegate delivered a seemingly polite comment. But layered in his phrasing, tone, and body language was a sharp critique.

If I had translated his words literally, the message would have lost all impact. Instead, I interpreted meaning over language by delivering the message in a tone that preserved both the intent and the relationship.

This is where many aspiring linguists falter: They assume their role is to be invisible. But in truth, we are cultural transmitters, not just messengers. Our job is not to vanish, but to faithfully and respectfully carry meaning across human boundaries. This is especially true when we transmit humorous comments or jokes, which can’t always be translated literally.

2. Having an Accent Is an Asset.

Throughout my career, I’ve watched countless multilingual professionals hide their accents in fear of judgment. I used to do the same. But over time, I realized that an accent is not a flaw — it is a footprint of one’s story.

My Brazilian-French-inflected English has opened more doors than it has closed. It has invited curiosity, built rapport, and sparked conversations that sterile fluency never could. An accent reminds the world that you carry multiple cultures in your voice and path. In a globalized world, that is a strength, not a setback.

3. Don’t Just Learn Languages; Learn Cultures.

Fluency means nothing without cultural intelligence. When I interpret, I listen for more than words. I observe posture, pacing, protocol, and mood. I ask, “What does this mean here, for these people?”

For example, how silence is used in Swiss diplomacy differs greatly from how it’s used in Brazilian negotiation. One is a pause for reflection, the other a sign of discomfort. In Asia, it is a sign of respect. Cultures are different and as interpreters and multilingual professionals, our effectiveness depends on our ability to decode context, not just vocabulary.

4. Multilingualism Is a Tool for Justice.

Language is not just about expression; it is also about equity. Whether it is a family navigating immigration court, a patient in a hospital, or a student learning in their non-native tongue, language access can determine opportunity, or even oppression.

In my recent work with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) initiatives in Southern California, I’ve focused on giving young people tools to track and advocate for equity in education, climate, and gender justice. Often, that begins by ensuring that language — any language — is not a barrier, but a bridge.

5. Between Every Language Lies a Choice.

Every interpreter, translator, teacher, and multilingual professional makes choices, not just of words, but of how to carry a certain meaning. We stand at the intersection of cultures, values, and identities. We don’t just interpret; we build understanding.

If there’s one message I leave with MultiLingual readers, it’s this: Your voice is powerful! Your multilingualism is not just a skill, it is a kind of diplomacy. In divided times, your work makes dialogue possible. Let that be your legacy.