Interpretation is translation at full speed, under pressure, in public. I transmit not just words but tone, intent, register — and the silences between them. Available on-site, by phone, or remotely via Zoom and other platforms.
The approach
When I interpret, I transmit the speaker's emotions as well as their words. I respect the people who have given their time and energy to express their thoughts — and who need me to bridge them to those listening. That responsibility is never abstract.
An interpreter who merely converts words is not enough. A good interpreter understands what is being said, why it matters, and how it should land. That requires preparation, cultural fluency, and — especially in tense or complex settings — the ability to read a room.
I have interpreted in steel factories and ministerial offices, at automotive launches and literary festivals, in NATO meeting rooms and hospital conference halls. Every context teaches you something the next one demands.
Formats
Booth or portable equipment
The interpreter works in real time, reformulating the speaker's message into the target language as it is delivered. Typically from a soundproof booth, or with a portable "bidule" system for smaller settings. Best for conferences and large multi-speaker events.
In the room, with notes
The interpreter listens and takes notes while the speaker talks, then renders the full speech once they pause. Ideal for technical presentations, bilateral meetings, study visits, and contexts where only a small number of languages are spoken.
Whispered, no equipment
The interpreter sits beside one or two participants and whispers the interpretation directly to them. Equipment-free, but suitable only for short meetings.
Assignment history
A selection of contexts and clients across 18 years of practice. From the NATO Military Council to a Galatasaray–Anderlecht post-match press room — no two assignments are alike, and that is precisely the point.
What clients say
"Despite the diversity of professions among the delegation and the breadth of topics, she conveyed the concepts and core elements with exceptional clarity, acting as a true linguistic and contextual bridge without leaving any room for doubt."
Dean, Faculty of Law, Bilkent University — Friedrich Ebert Foundation delegation, Brussels & Berlin
"Her professionalism, commitment, and enthusiasm undoubtedly contributed to the success of this trip."
Deputy Director, Institut français of Turkey, Ankara
"Ms. Balkan's sensitivity to the nuances of personal relationships was a great asset during an important time of transition. The best way to serve her client was not only to interpret, but also to encourage dialogue."
President, SIGNIS — World Catholic Association of Communicators
"Extremely reliable, accurate and professional, even in complex contexts with multiple booths. I look forward to continuing to collaborate on new projects."
Operations & Project Manager, Alfabeta / European Training Foundation
"Ms. Balkan provided excellent Turkish-English interpretation. Beyond her language competences, I appreciated her interpersonal skills, which meaningfully facilitated communication."
President, Greens/EFA Group, European Parliament
"We were extremely satisfied with her interpretation skills as well as her familiarity with the migration context. Unlike other experiences, we were quite lucky with our interpreter choice this time."
Associate Project Officer, ICMPD — Study visit to Belgian Migration Institutions
Tell me the date, the place, the format, the languages, and the topic. I'll come back to you promptly — and if I'm not available, I can recommend a trusted colleague.