A literal, word for word translation provides a general idea of what we want to convey in another language but overlooks important cultural and contextual factors relevant to the audience we want to address, just as automated translators do. Specialised translation, on the other hand, implies a deep command of both languages, but also the expertise, experience, and professionalism to make words make sense within the discursive genre in which they are inserted, taking into account the cultural context of the reader, as well as the register, tone and style of the text appropriate to that context.

At SELTIS we do not just translate words or phrases, we transcreate information and ideas so that they make sense in the target language. Our highly skilled translators have postgraduate degrees that bolster their knowledge, and vast experience that underpins their work. We offer a variety of options depending on the type of document to be translated. It can be translated in a simple way by a single translator (usually for unofficial documents and for personal purposes), or it can be translated through a rigorous process involving several translators (usually for technical texts, legal documents, or literary works). We have translators registered with SATI (South African Translators’ Institute) and sworn translators accredited by the Supreme Court of South Africa, who can issue certified translations for employment, immigration, or legal purposes.