You know that moment when you stumble upon something brilliant and think, ‘Where has this been all my life?’ That’s precisely how I felt discovering the Association of Interpreters and Translators (AIT). There I was, a court interpreter with a nerdy obsession for professional development, growing weary of those online events that kept popping up on LinkedIn.
AIT’s free events caught my eye: speakers from the police, legal professionals, therapists and other experts, seasoned interpreters ready to share decades of experience. The quality was outstanding, and I knew AIT membership was in my immediate future. I applied for AIT membership the same day I received my National Register of Public Service Interpreters (NRPSI) registration. What happened next was simply lovely – the chairman herself, Irina, rang me up for a chat. A personal welcome that spoke volumes about this interpreter-focused organisation.
What makes AIT special? It’s run entirely by volunteers who are practitioners themselves and understand interpreters’ needs fundamentally. The level of organisation is remarkable – everything runs flawlessly. The offerings are extraordinary: professional supervision, a practice hub, and an impressive calendar of CPD events. It sponsors the London Legal Walk, coordinates joint training with police negotiators, and collaborates with the Cleveland Clinic. All these opportunities are unique and simply brilliant.
Being neurodivergent in our profession can be challenging. But at AIT, I found my tribe. I felt heard. A place where one can have a proper chat about the challenges of interpreting without raising eyebrows. It’s such a wonderfully safe environment.
AIT’s commitment to advocating for professional recognition of title is also spot on. In an industry where the line between qualified and unqualified interpreters is blurry, AIT is standing firm as a champion of standards. Our title isn’t just some fancy badge – it’s years of hard work, endless learning, and absolute dedication to getting things right in public service interpreting.
When our industry hit a rough patch with the Ministry of Justice’s provider, AIT showed its dedication to support its members. Twenty-four hours later, my payment issue was sorted, with deep appreciation.
AIT has become my professional home – CPD, support, community, advocacy, and even fascinating explorations into the history of court interpreting. The cherry on top? I’ve recently been appointed to the board. From member to observer to director, it’s been quite a journey for a self-employed interpreting enthusiast.
You know what’s amazing? I’ve reached that spot where everything I could possibly need as an interpreter – every question, every bit of support, every professional aspiration – is right here with AIT. If it’s not at my fingertips, AIT will listen and move mountains to help. Rather like finding that perfect partner, you simply know when you’ve found your true love.
In these topsy-turvy times, finding AIT has been an absolute gem. While others merely talk standards, this remarkable team champions our profession with passion.
Elena Shutova (AIT)