Community Highlights: Meet Jasmine Velasco of Stride Interpreting LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Velasco

Hi Jasmine, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey as an interpreter began at the age of 12 when my mother introduced me to American Sign Language. What started as a fun hobby quickly evolved into a deep passion for language, communication, and accessibility.

As I delved deeper into the world of interpreting, I gained experience in various settings, including medical, legal, and educational environments. I also pursued certifications to enhance my skills and credibility. To further support interpreters, particularly those from marginalized communities, I founded Stride Interpreting, a Black-owned business. Through Stride, we offer workshops, mentorship, and community-building opportunities to empower interpreters and advocate for the Deaf community.

I’m passionate about creating a more inclusive and equitable interpreting profession, where interpreters from all backgrounds feel valued and supported. By uplifting interpreters from marginalized communities, we can increase representation and foster a stronger sense of belonging within the Deaf community. This ensures that Deaf individuals have access to quality interpreting services, regardless of their background or identity.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. There have been challenges along the way, such as navigating the business side of interpreting, balancing work-life commitments, and overcoming self-doubt. Additionally, I’ve faced challenges related to finding mentors who have experienced similar obstacles and building a sense of belonging within the interpreting community.

However, it was these very same challenges, and hearing the experiences of other interpreters from marginalized communities, that inspired me to create Stride Interpreting. Stride is designed to fill the gaps in support and resources for interpreters. We’re not just setting goals; we’re taking strides to make a tangible difference. I’m grateful for the challenges I’ve faced, as they’ve shaped me and Stride into what we are today. I look forward to the future and the continued growth of Stride and the interpreting community.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Stride Interpreting LLC?
Stride Interpreting is a Black-owned interpreting agency dedicated to empowering interpreters and providing exceptional language access services. We specialize in American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting, offering a wide range of services, including:
– On-site Interpreting: We provide skilled interpreters for various events, including conferences, workshops, medical appointments, legal proceedings, and educational settings.
– Remote Interpreting: We utilize video conferencing technology to connect interpreters and clients remotely, ensuring seamless communication across distances.
– Interpreter Training and Development: We offer workshops, mentorship programs, and other resources to support the professional growth of interpreters.
– Community Building: We foster a strong community of interpreters through affinity groups and networking events.

What sets us apart is our commitment to embracing the intersectionalities of the human experience. We prioritize hiring and supporting interpreters from marginalized communities, and we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all. By fostering a diverse and inclusive community, we aim to provide exceptional interpreting services and authentic connection with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.

We are most proud of our dedication to providing high-quality interpreting services while empowering interpreters. We believe that access to language is a fundamental human right, and we are committed to making a positive impact through every interpretation.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’m incredibly grateful for the support of many individuals who have played a significant role in the success of Stride Interpreting.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the countless Deaf individuals who have inspired me and motivated me to pursue a career in interpreting. Their resilience, determination, and unique perspectives have shaped my understanding of the Deaf community and the importance of accessible communication.

I’m also grateful for the mentorship and guidance of experienced hearing and Deaf interpreters who have shared their knowledge and expertise. Their support has been invaluable in my professional development. Additionally, I want to thank my team of dedicated interpreters who work tirelessly to provide high-quality interpreting services and are committed to continuous learning and growth. Their passion and commitment to our clients and the Deaf community are truly inspiring.

Finally, I’m grateful for the support of my family and friends who have encouraged me to pursue my dreams and provided unwavering support throughout my journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.strideinterpreting.com