At the heart of high-quality interpreting lies effective collaboration. The dynamic between Deaf and hearing interpreters is more than just a partnership—it is a synergy of expertise, language, and cultural knowledge that ensures truly accessible communication. But how do these teams build trust, balance responsibilities, and navigate professional challenges?
On 28th June 2025, The Together Conference is honoured to present a keynote session that delves into these crucial questions: "Unified Interpreting: Enhancing Collaboration Between Deaf and Hearing Professionals"Led by Dr. Kounghee Koh, an experienced Deaf interpreter and researcher, this session will explore how partnerships between Deaf and hearing interpreters can thrive through mutual respect, shared expertise, and a deep understanding of each other’s strengths.
Collaboration as a Cornerstone of Inclusive Interpreting
The relationship between Deaf and hearing interpreters is unique within the field of sign language interpreting. Both professionals bring distinct but complementary skills—Deaf interpreters offer native language fluency, cultural insight, and direct engagement with Deaf clients, while hearing interpreters facilitate spoken language access and bridge cross-modal communication. However, role clarity, power dynamics, and communication barriers can present challenges.
Through real-world case studies and lived experiences, Dr. Koh will break down the essential components of successful teamwork, providing insights into:
✅ Building Trust – How do Deaf and hearing interpreters establish a foundation of mutual respect?
✅ Navigating Role Responsibilities – Understanding when and how to step forward or step back in an assignment.
✅ Managing Power Dynamics – Addressing hierarchies and ensuring equal contributions in the interpreting process.
✅ Fostering Clear Communication – Techniques for ensuring smooth collaboration in high-pressure environments.
✅ Creating Inclusive Working Practices – How organisations and service providers can better support Deaf-hearing teams.
Why This Session Matters
Interpreting is not just about language; it is about culture, relationships, and ethics. As the profession evolves, Deaf interpreters are playing an increasingly central role in service provision, yet many hearing interpreters receive little formal training in how to work effectively in a team with Deaf colleagues.
This session challenges traditional assumptions, encouraging attendees to reflect on:🔹 How can we create equal partnerships that recognise both interpreters’ expertise?🔹 In what ways can hearing interpreters support and uplift Deaf interpreters in professional spaces?🔹 How can the interpreting profession better institutionalise collaboration, rather than leaving it to chance?
By the end of this keynote, delegates will walk away with practical strategies for ensuring that Deaf-hearing interpreting teams function smoothly, creating more accessible, empowering, and culturally competent experiences for Deaf communities.
Meet the Speaker: Dr. Kounghee Koh
Dr. Kounghee Koh is a certified Deaf Korean interpreter, researcher, and leader in the field of sign language interpreting. With over 25 years of experience, she serves as the President of KASLI (Korea Association of Sign Language Interpreters) and leads several initiatives focused on Deafblind communication and professional development for Deaf interpreters.
Her research spans haptic signals, Deafblind self-advocacy, and interpreting ethics, and she has authored several studies on developing inclusive communication methods. As an active community member, she also mentors interpreters, hosts networking events, and promotes greater visibility for Deaf professionals in the interpreting space.
Secure Your Spot at The Together Conference 2025
📅 Date: 28th June 2025
🔗 Get your ticket now: https://www.thetogetherconference.co.uk/tickets2025
This is an unmissable session for interpreters, trainers, and service providers looking to strengthen their understanding of Deaf-hearing collaboration and implement best practices that benefit both professionals and the communities they serve.
Comments