Why Arabic? How did you learn Arabic?

It all started in freshman year of high school: my close friend wanted me to take Arabic class with her, and I agreed because why not? And that was when it happened. I became fascinated with the Arabic language. Even to this day, after years of studying and working with it, I am captivated by how its meticulous patterns of roots integrate with its lyrical rhythm. I also enjoyed getting to know Arabic-speaking people and learning about the cultures and communities they live in. In college, I chose to major in Arabic because it was the only subject I really enjoyed to engage with outside of school hours.

What exactly do you do?

I help people communicate their ideas, research, and stories to audiences they can’t normally access, and I work with my clients to plan how they would like to be represented. When I say “represent,” I mean that I use language and visual tools to help my clients accurately express themselves to their intended audiences, through my three main services:

1. Arabic to English translation

2. English editing and proofreading

3. Desktop publishing

Why are you qualified?

I strive to understand the people I represent through my work in various ways, my favorite of which is living in Arabic-speaking countries from time-to-time. I’ve checked Jordan and Palestine off my list, and I’ve got many more to go!

I attend panel discussions hosted by organizations based in the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) or focused on Arab/Muslim issues to avoid stereotyped or Orientalizing information. Talks on issues facing other marginalized groups (e.g., the disabled, neurodiverse, and LGTBQIA+ communities) help me stay cognizant of marginalized perspectives and remember to ensure my final submissions are accessible to everyone.

I also listen to podcasts—in Arabic and English—created by and for Arabs, trying to absorb how Arabic speakers express their feelings and opinions on a topic or event. And most importantly, I watch dramatic TV shows on Shahid VIP 😜 and sometimes Netflix (The Present show have won that Oscar!!).

Do you work with all types of content and subjects?

I work with most word processing (Microsoft) and creative formatting (Adobe) programs, but I don’t work with programming languages or the more technically complex formats. As for the subject matter, I specialize in official and educational documents, human rights, social issues, political reform, and sustainability.

I care about facilitating people’s immigration, education abroad, and international business; protecting people’s rights; helping people get justice for themselves; and helping people improve their government and environment. And because of that, I am happy to work on certificates, transcripts, diplomas, research papers, articles, presentations, brochures, graphics, and books, which help my clients come to the United States to live, study, and do business; share their research and stories; change policy and misconceptions; and protect themselves, their loved ones, and their environment.