Surprise!
I may not be what you were expecting to find when you Googled “Japanese interpreter,” but rest assured, you are in the right place!
I find the element of surprise works in my favour more often than not. And that means it works in your favour, too, when your Japanese guests realise you’re working with an interpreter who will understand exactly what they want to say and convey their message in fluent, precise, nuanced English.
How did I end up here?
I have a first class degree in Japanese from the University of Oxford and an MA in interpreting and translating Japanese from the University of Bath. I’ve spent over three years studying and working in provincial Japan, and have more than fifteen years’ interpreting experience.
I know you would expect nothing less from your Japanese interpreter.
So what else can I offer?
I spent two years as a regular presenter for Japanese national television, NHK, reporting on the London 2012 Olympics, William and Kate’s wedding, and other fun events around the UK. I also regularly MC events for Japanese clients who need a bilingual MC who can understand their Japanese brief and turn it into an English reality.
Once upon a time, I was a student who spent almost as much time rehearsing and performing in theatre shows as I did studying Japanese. I was never going to be Julia Roberts, but my mis-spent youth laid a superb foundation for work as an interpreter. I may not have to memorize a script these days, but I started learning how to make sure your lines hit home many years before I started interpreting professionally.
And now?
I have had the privilege of interpreting for many well known names, from tidying guru Marie Kondo to director of Oscar-winning film “Drive My Car,” Ryusuke Hamaguchi, to legendary artist Yayoi Kusama. A lot of my work takes place behind closed doors, of course, in boardrooms, offices and site visits, but these assignments are every bit as fascinating and rewarding.
I’m based in London, but am happy to travel throughout the UK and beyond.
Careful, concise, accurate interpreting
Bethan has been working with us regularly since 2015. Our meetings are full of specialist industry terminology and in-house abbreviations, and we appreciate Bethan’s careful, concise, accurate interpreting. Recently most of our meetings have happened online, and her interpreting is just as smooth. She is always thoughtful towards our employees who are sometimes nervous about meeting with foreign customers, and we all appreciate her friendly personality.
KATO HIDENAKA
Nikkei