Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Cornesha Tweede. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dr. Cornesha, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright, let’s take a stroll on memory lane, back to when you were an apprentice or intern. What’s a memorable story from that time that you can share with us?

When I was in college, I had to complete an internship to graduate. My major was Spanish so I decided to do my internship at a local free medical clinic in Oklahoma. The medical clinic was attached to a church and this was an added bonus for me since my faith is in GOD. Before I describe the experience let me just say that this experience was pivotal for me and gave me clarity on how I can make an impact in the world.

I was a Spanish medical interpreter and translator at the free medical clinic and I interpreted and translated for patients throughout their entire visit. I would help patients get checked in, help them fill out paperwork, interpret their visit with the provider, and complete the visit with any final instructions such as medications or follow ups.

To prepare for this internship, I studied abroad, took a medical Spanish class and asked the LORD for wisdom and support.
I learned so much Spanish and was absorbing everything and then GOD gave me the opportunity to use it in this setting. I learned that I could utilize my language skills and cultural background to help people. This experience solidified the gift GOD gave me of speaking Spanish, as a near native speaker.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Dr. Tweede is the owner of Tweede Tingz LLC where she is a Spanish professor, tutor, interpreter and translator. Dr. Tweede started her business in 2019 to spread her passion for the Spanish language in a fun and engaging way and help people in their journey to learn the language. With a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Biochemistry, a certification as a medical interpreter, a Master’s degree in Spanish language, linguistics & literature, and a Ph.D. in Romance Languages with a specialization in African Studies, she brings expertise, experience, cultural resources and much more.

Tweede Tingz offers services and lessons in Spanish for any level and age or type of business. Working with various businesses from ministry to medical offices and teaching Elementary Spanish, Adult Spanish, and even dance to kids, Dr. Tweede brings high-energy and excitement to every lesson and session. Dr. Tweede has inspired students of all ages, from TK to adults, to learn and embrace the Spanish language. She creates a caring, flexible, and immersive environment for language enthusiasts everywhere.

Dr. Tweede is a versatile person. She is a researcher and finds pleasure in writing about black African women in the Iberian Peninsula during the 15th – 17th century. She is a frequent traveler, professional dancer, dance choreographer, author, evangelist, teacher of the Word of GOD and intercessor.

Speaking Spanish is a GOD-given gift for Dr. Tweede so she believes that all things are possible. If you are interested in learning Spanish or receiving support in your Spanish learning journey, a session with Dr. Tweede will give you the opportunity to ask questions, receive personalized advice, build confidence in your language skills and receive direct feedback on your progress.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I had to pivot in my career choice after I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree. I applied to various medical schools and was confident that one would accept, but none did. I realized at this time that maybe this was not the path GOD had for me. I dedicated my entire college career to studying and preparing for medical school, so when it didn’t work out, I was disappointed. It took me about a month to rid myself out of that funk and move forward in life. It was not easy, but I knew I had to keep moving forward.

I got certified as a Spanish medical interpreter and worked at a clinic as an interpreter. After a year, I got into a Spanish language, linguistics and literature Master’s program where I realized that a career in Spanish was possible. Before securing a spot in the Spanish Master’s program, I only had two career choices in mind – a medical doctor or lawyer. However, the pivot in career I had, helped to see the various career paths there are!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

This journey has not been easy. I have received pushback from professors and people from Spanish-speaking communities. I am a near native Spanish speaker and embrace all cultures and backgrounds, but when people see me and hear me speak Spanish, it is not all smiles. I have been resilient to continue forward with multiple degrees in Spanish and a plethora of experiences. I have been in many settings where I was the only Black person speaking Spanish and the level of awe would mute people. I have also been working as an interpreter where patients would overlook me as the interpreter or ask me a million of questions about my origin, my family background and more before interpreting their visit. I stand firm in who I am and just because I speak Spanish does not mean I am less Black. It takes lots of courage and boldness to support multiple communities and be a person people can depend on. I take pleasure in knowing I do this for multiple communities including Spanish speaking communities.

Contact Info:

• Website: tweedetingz.com
• Instagram: @tweedetingz
• Facebook: Prayer of Love Inc.
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@prayerofloveinc.5295?si=44SRGCSqMdybKSIt
• Other: https://bio.site/tweedetingz

Image Credits
Global Roots Academy Tasha Teaches Spanish