Translation consultants are often seen as the 'experts', coming in to a project to 'check' their work and improve it. There is a danger that we are continuing colonial practices by doing this. So, here are a few suggestions (this is not a comprehensive list) of ways to reduce this power gap. Learn from the team. It's their language, not yours Have a humble attitude Make an introductory statement such as 'I am not here to criticise your work...' Encourage the team to discuss any problems/issues in their language, rather than yours. You can always ask for a summary of their discussion. Stay locally with believers in the area (not in a hotel) Give positive feedback when they are seeing local support come in for the project, whether financial or other Praise their translation - look for good aspects, not only things that need improvement Mentor a local consultant to take over from you Ask them for their feedback at the end of the consultation (ways y...
Discussing issues to do with Scripture (Bible) engagement, mission, and Bible translation.