The We Speak Translate project is a first of its kind collaboration between Google Translate and the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA), BC, Canada, which uses the Google Translate app to aid in refugee resettlement and newcomer inclusion in communities. The We Speak Translate project address the number on barrier to new immigrant integration – language – by re-purposing technology as a tool and symbol for welcoming communities – which value diversity and inclusion.

The project involves training community stakeholders, organizations and institutions in the Google Translate app. Upon completion of the free, 50-minute training, participants receive a We Speak Translate decal, a visible symbol of inclusion and commitment to promoting diversity and communication across language barriers. Familiarity with the Google Translate app establishes a common platform for communication while newcomers develop their English language skills.

Since the project launched in April 2017, over 2500 community members and stakeholders have received Google Translate training through the We Speak Translate project.

Google is humbled and excited to be supporting this project with the goal of helping new Canadians make the often challenging transition to life in Canada through language and engagement – Roque Silva, Interaction Designer, Google Translate

Training Goals & Benefits:

1. Encourage welcoming communities that value diversity, inclusion and integration.
2. Become familiar with the Google Translate app (free, downloadable app for smartphones and tablets).
3. Establish a common platform for communication with newcomers while English language skills develop.

Workshop Format:

1. Introduction and overview of project/objective
2. Google Translate training presentation
3. Explore the capacity of the Google Translate app
4. Learn how to effectively use the Google Translate app
5. Interact with the app

Upon completion of the training the We Speak Translate decals can be mailed to webinar participants.

We Speak Translate Training Facilitator:

Kate Longpre, M.A. is the Community Integration Coordinator at ICA. Kate works strategically across sectors to ensure that resettled refugees entering the Greater Victoria area are successfully integrated into welcoming communities. Kate approached Google Translate in September 2016 with the idea for the We Speak Translate project. In April 2017 the project launched in Victoria, BC, the first location worldwide to initiate the project.