​Gert Erasmus, a dedicated interpreter at Stellenbosch University's (SU) Language Centre, bridges communication between Deaf and hearing individuals through South African Sign Language. His role encompasses interpreting academic and extracurricular activities, providing essential support and fostering inclusivity within the University community. As we started May celebrating Workers' Day, we dedicate this series of profiles to our staff and their important contribution to the University.

What does your role at SU entail? 

I facilitate communication between Deaf and hearing staff and students using South African Sign Language (SASL) and English and Afrikaans for various settings at SU, both academic and extracurricular. I interpret classes, meetings, training sessions and private matters such as medical consultations, for example.

I also provide language support services to Deaf students and staff members such as translation, transcription, editing, proofreading and note-taking at times.  

People often see the role of Sign Language interpreters as a service to the Deaf community, but we are just as much there to facilitate communication for hearing staff members and students. So, we are there to provide a communication bridge between Deaf colleagues and students and the hearing community.

What does a typical day at work look like? 

I regularly accompany students to class to interpret lectures. We don't interpret word for word, we interpret ideas, the meaning of what has been said, but also how it's being said. We also interpret the intention, the emotion and any relevant information about the environmental context.

Although you don't form every word with your lips, you sometimes silently mouth an important word for emphasis.

There are usually two interpreters, because it's quite draining to interpret for long stretches. It's cognitively and physically tiring because you don't just take in information to be able to sign, you also use your facial expressions and your body to communicate effectively. In a situation where there are multiple speakers you slightly move your body from one side to the other to indicate which person is talking. It can become quite tiring, so in longer classes, we take turns interpreting for stretches of 25 minutes each. 

To be able to interpret well, we have to do comprehensive preparation for lectures. You have to grasp the subject matter and in some science subjects, it gets rather abstract and complicated. I enjoy interpreting for subjects that are not only about facts but ideas and emotions as well.

As interpreters, we have a very strict code of ethics. You have to be neutral and professional at all times. But in an educational setting, you do develop a strong connection and a unique way of understanding the people you serve.

How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this job?  

I followed a rather unconventional path to becoming a South African Sign Language interpreter for the Deaf. Unlike some, I didn't have any prior exposure to Deaf culture or Sign Language through family or friends. It wasn't until around 2008 when I started working alongside a Deaf colleague that my journey began. I felt it wasn't right that I couldn't communicate with her while effortlessly conversing with others.

Our interactions initially consisted of basic greetings written on pieces of paper during tea and lunch breaks. I asked her to teach me a few basic signs and surprisingly, I found myself grasping Sign Language quickly. When this colleague eventually became my direct line manager, I realised the need to expand my Sign Language vocabulary for work-related discussions. I enrolled in a community-based SA Sign Language course to better comprehend technical terms.

My involvement in interpreting grew organically as I interacted with more Deaf individuals and became part of the Deaf community. Within about a year and a half of starting to learn Sign Language, I was approached to assist in interpreting at the Provincial Parliament in Mpumalanga. Due to my proficiency in Afrikaans, I managed to assist a high-ranking government official who struggled with the nuances of political Afrikaans.

I was initially hesitant due to my lack of experience, but I agreed to shadow experienced interpreters in Parliament for several months. Through observation, note-taking and collaborative discussions, I gradually gained confidence. Eventually, I began interpreting independently in Parliament, a role I fulfilled for approximately four years.

When a position became available for a South African Sign Language interpreter at SU, I didn't think I would be considered because I didn't have a university degree at the time. But a friend and colleague in the Deaf community encouraged me to apply and when I came for the interview it was quite a stringent process – I had to answer questions in English, Afrikaans and South African Sign Language and I had to complete several interpreting tests. It went very well, and I was very honoured to step into the role of one of the first Sign Language interpreter at SU.

Because of my proficiency, I've received recognition of prior learning and I'm currently completing a master's degree in Linguistics at SU.

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU? 

I feel very privileged to be able to bridge the communication gap between Deaf and hearing communities and cultures. It is very rewarding to provide access to Deaf students and staff who previously did not, and in some cases still do not, have access to further education opportunities. I work with wonderful colleagues at the Language Centre who provide support and encouragement that go above and beyond.

It's also great working at a university that is busy transforming and evolving for the better.

Personally, my interaction with the Deaf community has made me appreciate the value of communication. Over the years, I've become more visually inclined. My brain has adapted to experience the world differently.

Tell us something exciting about yourself that few people would expect? 

My partner says I am an Olympic medal sleeper who can fall asleep within minutes and stay asleep (caffeinated or not) for more than 12 hours.

Another thing that people might find surprising is that I'm a qualified real estate agent and a Demi Chef. I did hospitality studies as a subject at school and part of the course was practical work. I enjoyed working in restaurants and I ended up qualifying as an assistant chef.

The estate agent qualification happened because a friend was selling houses and started her own company, and she needed agents. It was a great fit for me because it gave me a lot of freedom to still do interpreting on the side as well.

PHOTO: Stefan Els