Sara Bettencourt
About Sara Bettencourt
Sara Bettencourt is a skilled Video Relay Interpreter and American Sign Language Interpreter with over 13 years of experience at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada. She has a strong educational background in ASL interpretation and has worked in various interpreting settings, demonstrating a deep understanding of Deaf culture and linguistics.
Work at Sorenson Communications
Sara Bettencourt has been employed at Sorenson Communications as a Video Relay Interpreter and American Sign Language Interpreter since 2013. Over the course of her 11 years with the company, she has contributed to facilitating communication for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals through video relay services. This role involves interpreting conversations between Deaf users and hearing individuals, ensuring effective communication in various contexts.
Education and Expertise
Sara Bettencourt studied at George Brown College from 2008 to 2011, where she earned an Ontario College Advanced Diploma in American Sign Language - English Interpreting. Her education provided her with a strong foundation in the linguistics of both American Sign Language and English, as well as the theories and models of interpreting. This academic background supports her professional practice in various interpreting settings.
Background in American Sign Language
Sara Bettencourt grew up in a Deaf family, which allowed her to gain early practical experience in American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation. This immersive environment fostered her understanding of Deaf culture and communication from a young age. Her background has significantly influenced her career and approach to interpreting.
Professional Experience
Sara Bettencourt has over six years of professional experience in interpreting across various settings, including educational, community, and corporate environments. In addition to her current roles, she has worked as a Freelance American Sign Language Interpreter for the Canadian Hearing Society since 2017. Her diverse work history includes positions at Apple as a Technical Administrator and at McDonald's as a Manager, showcasing her versatility and adaptability in different roles.
Membership in Professional Organizations
Sara Bettencourt has been a member of the Association of Visual Language Interpreters of Canada (AVLIC) since 2010 and the Ontario Association of Sign Language Interpreters (OASLI) since 2010. These memberships reflect her commitment to professional development and adherence to industry standards in American Sign Language interpretation.