Linguist Spotlight: Pepo - From Global Performer to Pittsburgh Linguist

Some people interpret languages. Others interpret life.

For Pepo, interpretation is simply the latest chapter in a journey that spans continents, cultures, and creative expression.

Pepo was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo but came to the United States in 1996 with a remarkable background in dance, theater, and film. Today, he serves communities across Southwestern Pennsylvania as a French, Swahili, and Lingala interpreter, ensuring families are heard and understood during life’s critical moments. Before becoming an interpreter, Pepo graduated from the National Institute of Arts in Congo and performed with the National Ballet and Theater of Congo. He later started his own artistic company in DR Congo to promote African arts and cultural exchange, touring throughout Africa, Europe, and the United States, mentoring and inspiring countless performers – some now even work for Disney in Florida. In addition to his love for the performing arts, Pepo has also appeared in films, commercials, and fashion campaigns in Congo. 

“I came from a high level,” he says. “You never perform without preparation. You respect the art.”

That same discipline shaped his work as an artist and producer, and now as an interpreter.

Pepo joined Global Wordsmiths in May 2025. Within the first few days of training, he started taking on assignments and soon felt right at home. He interprets primarily for families from East and Central Africa, bringing not just fluency but cultural nuance. In Swahili for example, regional differences can affect understanding. Even something as simple at how to say “twenty-two” can be misconstrued. “If you say it one way, someone may not understand,” he explains. “So, it’s important to adjust so they clearly understand.”

Pepo especially finds healthcare assignments the most meaningful. “Without interpretation, it would be hard for them to understand exactly what treatment they are getting,” he says. “When they understand, they feel comfortable. They feel helped, which often leads to better outcomes.”

His advice to new interpreters is simple: “Listen. Be patient. Do not guess.” Maintaining neutrality, even in emotional situations, is essential to ensuring clarity and trust.

When asked about a favorite proverb, Pepo shared a Lingala saying: “Matoï eleka motó te,” which means the ear cannot be higher than the head. Hearing something does not mean you fully understand it. The mind must process meaning carefully. Although Pepo now calls Pittsburgh home, celebrating his cultural roots remain important to him. He still cherishes any celebration that brings families in the Congo together like Christmas and New Years. He enjoys Congolese rumba music, poetry, and fashion design, especially from Yves Saint Laurent. He is an avid reader and believes music, like literature, should carry depth and message. “Music is like a book,” he says. “The words must touch you.”

  For Pepo, language access represents more than just translation. “I believe it represents, Communication. Cultural exchange. The value of society.”

From international stages to hospital rooms in Pittsburgh, Pepo continues to share his gifts by ensuring voices are heard clearly, respectfully, and completely. And we are honored to have him on our team.