BONJOUR !
A little bit about me …
I am a seasoned conference interpreter and translator/editor. I specialise in international development, marketing and corporate communication. My working languages are English, Spanish and French (my native language).
I have always been fascinated by communication and languages. Since my high school years, I have devoted myself to learning and perfecting my language skills, cultural and specialist knowledge to become a consummate language professional. My academic studies and professional career took me to China, Spain, the USA and, eventually, the UK, which I now call home. Prior to becoming a solopreneur, I held positions in administration/HR and communication for the private sector (financial services, hospitality, international trade) and academia. This solid professional grounding equipped me with the required skillset and attitude to run my own business. After helping raise the profile of the Oxford University China Centre, I decided to take the plunge and follow my original call to train as an interpreter. As a young mum, I needed more flexibility and wanted to balance my professional and family commitments. 13 years on, I have never looked back.
I am passionate about helping people communicate. There’s nothing more rewarding than witnessing a successful interaction unfold between two interlocutors who do not share the same language or background. When the message gets through, one is left with the immense satisfaction of having made a meaningful difference.
My profession avails me with endless opportunities of discovering new insights and perspectives. Every assignment is a challenge, which requires in-depth research and meticulous preparation. Being a bit of a perfectionist, this trait also serves me well for editing/revision work. When I commit myself to delivering a project, I give it my all. If you’re looking for a dedicated and reliable partner to ensure seamless communication, look no further.
My watchwords are discretion, precision and clarity. Whatever the assignment you entrust me with, I will always remain faithful to your intention and ensure your message is impactful.
My approach
Before accepting an assignment, I like to take the time to understand your expectations and your objectives. If it so happens that my expertise is not a good fit, I will happily recommend a competent colleague to assist with your request. Once we both agree that we are a good match, we can then get down to business and discuss how I can help you elevate your communication. I like to establish a relationship based on trust and I value transparency and mutual respect.
Each assignment or project is unique, but my approach remains the same. It involves careful planning, thorough preparation and in-depth research of the subject matter. I leave nothing to chance and always surround myself with trusted colleagues who share the same values of professionalism and confidentiality.
Many of my clients are either small businesses, individuals or non-profit organisations. I take great pride in contributing to the success of their enterprise. Nothing pleases me more than supporting my clients’ growth - personal or professional - and helping them expand their reach. My role as a professional linguist is to smoothen communication and help you unlock opportunities.
As a business owner, I know first hand the pressures and challenges faced by small business owners and I fully appreciate the importance of partnering with true professionals you can trust. Let me take the pain out of the equation so you can focus on what you do best.
Professional accreditations
Qualified Member (MITI) of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI)
Qualified Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL)
Committee member of the ITI French Network and Co-editor of the Au Courant newsletter
Committee member of the ITI Parent and Carer Network
My qualifications
I graduated from Bordeaux Montaigne University with a Master’s degree in Translation studies (applied to business/marketing, with Spanish and English). I also hold a Master’s degree in Chinese Studies from SOAS and a Diploma in advanced Mandarin Chinese from UIBE. My other qualifications include the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (EN/FR) and Diploma in Police Interpreting (with distinction), for which I received the NRPSI Award for excellence.
CPD and interests
As a member of two reputable professional associations I am fully committed to lifelong learning and continuing professional development. I regularly take part in peer-to-peer discussions via the numerous forums and networking events organised by both the ITI and CIoL. Every year, I invest time and efforts in maintaining my practice and I keep abreast of technological advances in the field by attending workshops and conferences.
When I am not interpreting or translating, I like to spend time surrounded by nature. I enjoy hiking, running (every Saturday morning at my local park run and once a week with my “Run for Fun” buddies) or cycling on country roads. I also practice Pilates regularly, which helps me stay calm and grounded. Listening to music, dancing, gardening and reading are also favourite past-times of mine. More recently, I decided to further my understanding of wine/food pairing by gaining a WSET level 1 qualification. Time allowing, I intend to pursue this discovery journey by adding level 2 & 3.
