I studied French at the university of Birmingham and gained by B.A. Hons in French. The course had a heavy literature bias. After this I spent one year in York where I gained a diploma for bi-lingual secretaries, with the emphasis on business French.

For many years I worked for Lancome cosmetics company, in the marketing division. Here I used my knowledge of French on a daily basis and was often required to translate French texts about the industry. As I worked in marketing, I was also called upon to translate advertisements and promotions into English, ensuring the synergy of the brand throughout Europe, yet being sensitive to the culture of the English speaking market. Translations concerning finance were also very often required.

Last year I attended the University of Westminster to study for the Institute of Linguists diploma (iolet). This was a very intense course, covering the appropriate translation of such subjects as current affairs, law, social sciences, literature, technology, science and business. The aim of the course was to prepare students for the rigorous examinations of the diploma. This was a postgraduate level course.

In June of last year, I attended a 20-hour course on Literary translation at the City University. Many aspects of literature translation were covered: poetry, novels, introductions to art exhibitions, diary extracts, even an obituary. I have entered several competitions for literary translation. The translation of poetry is my forte and my great passion.