The linguist’s story
Every month, we get to know a bit more about one of our linguists. This month, we meet Shafiqa Shairshah, a linguist working in Dari and Persian/Farsi.
Tell us about the work you do for TLS.
I work as an interpreter for Persian and Dari, supporting individuals from Iran and Afghanistan in a wide range of settings. My role goes beyond direct translation. I act as a bridge between cultures, helping people communicate clearly during some of the most important and often difficult moments in their lives. Whether it’s within healthcare, legal environments or support services, I ensure that individuals feel heard, understood, and respected.
What has been your biggest challenge?
One of the most challenging aspects of my work is interpreting during trauma therapy sessions. Many of the individuals I support have experienced profound hardship, including displacement, conflict, and loss. Being present in those conversations requires not only linguistic accuracy but also emotional resilience. I naturally feel a deep sense of empathy, and while that can be difficult at times, it also motivates me to provide the highest level of support I can. I am always mindful of maintaining professionalism while ensuring that my presence contributes to a safe and supportive environment.
Can you tell us about a time your work has made a difference to someone with refugee status?
Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of supporting many refugee families, particularly from Afghanistan, during extremely challenging periods of their lives. I always try to offer not just interpretation, but also reassurance and a sense of hope. Even small moments (helping someone fully express themselves or understand their options) can make a meaningful difference. I’ve received heartfelt appreciation from families who felt encouraged and supported during difficult transitions and seeing them regain confidence and resilience is incredibly rewarding.
Tell us something interesting about you.
Outside of my professional work, I have a strong passion for gardening and spending time in nature. I find it both grounding and inspiring. I also love travelling and immersing myself in different cultures, experiencing new environments, traditions and perspectives enriches both my personal life and my work as an interpreter. It helps me connect more deeply with the people I support and appreciate the diversity of their experiences.