Latin American translators visit Guangzhou on Jan 11. [Photo/Nanfang Plus]

A group of young literary translators and Sinologists from Latin America embarked on a journey of cultural immersion in Guangdong on Jan 11. The program, titled "Tango of Translation", was organized by the China Writers Association with the aim of fostering deeper literary ties between China and Latin America.

The initiative was launched at the Guangdong Literature Museum. Allen Young, a clinical assistant professor of Spanish from NYU Shanghai who is participating in the event, emphasized the importance of going beyond the written word and engaging in cultural exchange. "True translation is about building a bridge for souls, allowing one civilization to genuinely resonate with another," he said during the ceremony.

Maria Victoria Canibano Bianchetti, a young translator and researcher from Argentina, talked about her keen interest in the local culture. "Being from a nation with a rich hybrid culture myself, I'm particularly drawn to Guangdong's unique blend of local and overseas influences. This experience provides invaluable context for my translation work," she said.

Over the coming week, the delegation will visit major cultural landmarks, including the Lu Xun Memorial Hall and the Cantonese Opera Art Museum, and engage in dialogues with local writers and scholars. The program is designed to provide firsthand insights into Lingnan culture, giving the translators a deeper understanding that will support  them in their mission to bring Chinese literature to Latin American readers.