Teen Translates His Way to Success at TIES Summer Camp

Emilio Carvallo is a smooth translator. Speaking multiple languages — at just 13 years old!

“My mom is Ukrainian and my dad is Mexican,” Carvallo says.

“So, with my mom, we speak Russian. But because we're from Mexico, we also speak Spanish. And sometimes we speak English.”

English may be his third language, but he’s mastering it. Along, with the art of translation.  

He credits that in large part to TIES (The Immigrant Education Society) Summer Camp for Youth Who Help Translate.

“This (2026) was my third year taking part,” Carvallo says.  

“It was a great opportunity, because there's a lot of immigrants and people who have to language broker for their parents, family members.”

The Challenges of Language Brokering

Youth language brokering — or translating — isn’t always easy. It can take a lot of skill and put a lot of pressure on the young person.

"There are some places where it's really scary to translate and you have to be prepared,” Carvallo points out.

“It is really hard because there's some tricky words that don't have an exact translation. Let's say I’m at the doctor and I don't know how to say something. I’m worried that I’m gonna make a big mistake.” 


Emilie Lui says that’s where the TIES camp can— and did help — once again this summer.

Lui, who is a coordinator with TIES Centre for Immigrant Research, says 31 youth aged 11-17 attended the two camps held this year.

“The camp is about more than just translating. It’s about building their confidence and getting them thinking about things like advocacy and identity,” she says. 

“The kids are able to see that they’re not alone in this. Not only by building community but by realizing there are resources available to help them.”

Summer of Fun and Knowledge

The youth had plenty of fun at camp. They played soccer, ran track, visited local attractions, and hung out just learning more about each other and other cultures.

They also learned valuable lessons about their legal rights thanks to a visit with law enforcement. TIES team members from the Financial Literacy Program also taught them about money management. Last, but certainly not least, they learned about the Canadian medical system and how to navigate it and other resources.

But Lui says the most important thing she hopes the kids leave with is knowing that what they do is a skill — not a burden.

“I think they leave camp with deeper appreciation and maybe even a new sense of self, sense of identity,” she says.

“Pride in who they are and a recognition that what they are doing is actually incredible and amazing.”

So Long… Until Next Year!

For the first time ever, Emilio Carvallo was able to attend TIES Summer Camp with his younger sister Elliana.

He’s proud of what both of them have learned this summer.

“The camp was amazing. It was like really fun. Best camp I've ever been to.”

“It’s definitely the best part of my job — special,” Lui adds.

“Not only for being able to support these youth but also in being just a small part of their story.” 

“I'm really thankful to Canada and especially TIES for this camp. See you next year!” Carvallo says excitedly.

TIES is also very thankful to Family & Community Support Services (FCSS), City of Calgary for making funding available for these camps.

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Additional Information:

https://www.immigrant-education.ca/ties-news/day-camp-for-young-translators-helping-children-of-newcomers-find-the-words

https://www.ctvnews.ca/calgary/article/child-language-brokers-focus-of-day-camp-offered-by-calgary-immigrant-education-society/

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Media RSVP, Interviews & Inquiries:

Tomasia DaSilva

Media and Relationship Strategist

Email: tomasiadasilva@immigrant-education.ca

Phone: 403-291-0002