Event description

Men in Sign Language Interpreting

Originally Recorded Online on Monday 24 August 2026

What is it like to be a man in a profession where around 80% of sign language interpreters are women?

This thought-provoking AIMS panel brought together six respected male sign language interpreters from Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, the Netherlands and the UK to share their personal experiences, insights and reflections on working in the profession.

Together, they explored responsible allyship, the opportunities and challenges that can come with being male in a predominantly female profession, and how male interpreter privilege can be used positively to support colleagues, strengthen professional relationships and provide better access for the Deaf community.

Presenters

• Dr Paul Michaels — Special Guest | London, England
• David McQuiggin | Sydney, Australia
• Gabriel Kirley | Melbourne, Australia
• Alan Wendt | Aotearoa New Zealand
• Ramon van Renssen | The Netherlands
• Imran Ahmed | Perth, Australia

Host

• Alana Wiekart | Perth, Australia

Special guest Dr Paul Michaels completed his PhD at Durham University in 2023, researching why men in the UK become sign language interpreters and exploring their experiences within the profession.

Topics explored include:

• What is it like being a man in a predominantly female profession?
• Can being male create unexpected opportunities or challenges?
• What does a “male interpreter privilege check” mean?
• How can male interpreters use any privilege they have to work in solidarity with female colleagues?
• What responsibilities do male interpreters have within the profession?
• How can workplaces become more respectful, inclusive and supportive for everyone?
• What does it mean when a male interpreter takes the “glass elevator” while colleagues are taking the stairs and how can they resist doing so?

The recording also includes questions and discussion from the live audience.

Suitable for interpreting students, practising interpreters, interpreter educators and interested members of the Deaf community.

Presented in English with Auslan interpretation and live captions.

Purchase now for immediate access to the recording.

Please choose the recording type that best describes you:

Interpreter + Certificate

$45 AUD | $32 USD | $55 NZD | £24 GBP | €28 EUR

Student

$35 AUD | $25 USD | $43 NZD | £19 GBP | €22 EUR

Deaf Community

$25 AUD | $18 USD | $31 NZD | £13 GBP | €15 EUR