Makeba Orr Smith was a nationally certified interpreter, speech pathologist, and child of a Deaf adult (CODA). She had a bubbly personality and everyone in our field loved her. Makeba meant far more to me than just a colleague. She was the first person to be-friend me when I moved to Atlanta.
Over the years, we became very close. She was one of my best friends. We talked on the phone every single day, sometimes multiple times per day, about everything, about our business, and about nothing. We kept up with each other’s work and life schedules. Also, we saw each other on our teamed assignments every day. Truly, we built a close, lasting bond.
It is worth noting how proud Makeba was of her achievements such as interpreter, especially on a national certification level. She always took pride in reaching the status that comes with being both interpreter and nationally certified.
Makeba was passionate about elevating more minority interpreters to nationally certified status. She was also motivated more than ever to improve her own skills. In fact, the very last conversation that I had with her, the night before she passed away, was special. Amongst the many topics we talked about, she sent me a video of her interpreting for an event. She wanted me to give her feedback on that video. In her journey, earning recognition as an interpreter who was nationally certified set an inspiring example for others. This also showed what is possible for anyone striving to become a nationally certified interpreter themselves.
We started SOS Interpreting Solutions together in 2019, on a whim. We saw a service gap in the Atlanta area. Our goal was to help an out-of-state agency fill their assignments so that the Deaf community would not have to go without interpreters in a crucial setting. Since that first project, we have reached more customers organically and by word of mouth. Also, we provide translating, interpreting, and CART services. The agency now works in both in-person and remote settings. I know she’d be so happy with how far we’ve come in serving the Deaf community. In particular, we have made progress in strengthening the role of interpreters who hold national certification. This dedication has helped us attract many trying to achieve nationally certified interpreter roles in Georgia and beyond.
Her excellence and passion for this work has continuously inspired me over the time we’ve been partners and friends. The dedication to expanding minority representation in our field is a noble cause, one that I want to continue. I have decided to honor her legacy by creating a scholarship that will mentor and fund minority interpreters to become certified on a national level. The Makeba Orr Smith scholarship will be announced soon! In doing this, I hope to make a difference for the next generation of interpreters. In addition, I want to help guide more applicants on the path toward becoming a nationally certified interpreter.
Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date with other exciting things happening at The SOS Agency. As an initiative to support interpreter excellence, and to encourage the journey towards becoming nationally certified, we will offer discounted interpreting services for events not covered under the ADA. We will also provide more mentoring opportunities, professional development, and blogs! We aim to support every aspiring interpreter who wants to join the ranks of those nationally certified in this meaningful career.
