Four translators and interpreters have been recognised for reaching 40 years of service at Multicultural NSW, marking four decades spent helping migrants navigate life in the state.
At a ceremony at NSW Parliament House this week, Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper described interpreters and translators as central to the state’s multicultural success. “The success of our multicultural society would simply not be possible without a workforce of dedicated translators and interpreters,” he said. “I congratulate the four translators and interpreters who have spent their careers smoothing the way for migrants who come to NSW, helping them to feel valued, understood and at home.”
Multicultural NSW employs more than 1,000 interpreters and translators, delivering services by telephone, face-to-face and video, along with written translations for government agencies, non-government organisations and members of the public. In 2025 alone, the Language Services team completed more than 76,000 language assignments across 97 languages and dialects.
Among those honoured was Shirley Zantis, who has worked as a Greek interpreter since 1985. Over the years, she has assisted many people in the Greek community and speaks of the gratitude she receives as one of the most rewarding parts of her role.
Spanish interpreter and translator Alexandra van der Wiel, who came to Australia from Uruguay, has built a career spanning more than four decades. Her commitment has been shaped by a love of the Spanish language and a desire to support people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Banu Baran began working as a Turkish interpreter for the then-named Ethnic Affairs Commission, now Multicultural NSW, at just 22 years old
Banu Baran began working as a Turkish interpreter for the then-named Ethnic Affairs Commission, now Multicultural NSW, at just 22 years old. At the same time, she worked as a Turkish Community Development Worker at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre. She reflects that her career in interpreting has taught her patience, empathy and the importance of listening closely, taking in tone, body language and what is left unsaid.
A Mandarin interpreter, whose name has been withheld on request, also marked 40 years of service. Growing up in China, they arrived in Australia as an English language student and later worked as a bilingual support officer with the Department of Education. It was through that role they first became aware of interpreting and translation services. They believe community interpreting and translation services play a crucial role in providing equal opportunities for individuals with language barriers.
Acting CEO of Multicultural NSW James Jegasothy said language access remains fundamental to public participation. “Providing high quality translation and interpreting services is a core priority for Multicultural NSW. “Language must never be a barrier to participation, and our skilled translator and interpreter workforce plays a critical role in ensuring everyone can access services, information and opportunities equally.”
For many migrants, the presence of a trusted interpreter can mean the difference between confusion and clarity, particularly when navigating healthcare, education, legal matters or social services. The scale of assignments delivered this year reflects both the diversity of the state and the continued demand for language support.
The four interpreters’ careers span changes in technology, policy and migration patterns. What has remained constant is the human connection at the centre of the work: ensuring that people are heard, understood and able to participate fully in the community they now call home.
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