I can still remember the large antique desk, squeezed into the tiny family room of our modest home in Norwalk, California. It took up most of the space, and I used to play on the floor next to it while my mom worked at it. She was a hard worker, always typing, writing and talking on the phone, while 70’s classics played in the background. She had worked at various jobs, the telephone company, as a beautician, but it was her job as a court reporter that she enjoyed most. Born in Mexico City, her family moved to California while she was still a young girl. Spanish was her first language and she caught on to English quickly. Maria was educated and raised in San Pedro, married, and moved to Norwalk. While working in the Court Reporting field, she was often asked to assist with Spanish speaking clients during workers compensation depositions. She was a trusted professional that attorneys could rely on to provide accurate and excellent interpretation & translation. She soon discovered her passion for language and interpretation! When an attorney friend suggested she take the State Certification Exam, she was up for the challenge. Maria studied hard to do her best, as she did with everything. Passing the test on her first try, she became one of the first Certified Interpreters in the State of California. Law firms and insurance carriers alike, immediately started contacting her to appear on their cases. She became so high in demand, that she was refusing work on a daily basis. Not only was she concerned about turning down work from loyal clients, but it was most important to her that she have the flexibility to be home when I came home from school each day. So, out of a mothers heart, and an entrepanueral spirit, Mariposa Interpreting Services was born in 1979. And over 40 years later, Mariposa Interpreting remains one of the longest running interpreting & translating agencies in the business. I attribute our longevity to our commitment to customer service, providing quality work, and conducting business in a manner that is honest and ethical. It has been something both our clients and our interpreters & translators have come to expect and depend upon. Its the foundation I grew up on, its the way my mother conducted business, and it’s exactly what I am dedicated to continuing.
I often get asked, “what does the butterfly in your logo represent?” Quite simply, butterfly in Spanish is “MARIPOSA.” My mother thought it sounded beautiful, just like the Spanish language. And, it certainly is, just like my mother was.
- Sandie Cervantes, Owner - Mariposa Interpreting