Isabella Fratani: Volunteer

Since Isabella Fratani started working as a volunteer with The Rosetta Foundation in November 2011, she has translated more than 20,000 words into French – with excellent results. A native of France, Fratani is currently living in Barcelona. She is proficient in English, Catalan and Spanish, and is now learning Chinese.

1. When did you start working with TRF and how did you hear about us?

It’s recent. I started working with The Rosetta Foundation in November 2011. I found out about you through a colleague who also translates for you.

2. Why did you decide to be a volunteer translator and spend your free time on translations for non-profit organizations?

I admire the work done by field volunteers all around the world. Since I was not brave enough to participate in such activity, in the field, translating for you is my small contribution to that essential work.

3. How much time do you usually spend on TRF projects?

So far I’ve only worked on two projects; I have spent some evenings and part of some weekends on them.

4. You have participated in two projects with us, with two different NGOs. What was your experience of working on the project for Concern Worldwide?

The content I translated for Concern Worldwide is what I usually translate in my current work (as I am a technical translator, specialized in localization).

5. You also completed a project for the Irish charity Trócaire. Can you tell us some more about it?

It was a very interesting document on women’s participation and different to what I usually translate, but more similar to the type of content I was trained to translate. I also learned a lot during the translation, which is fantastic. To me, learning is another motivating factor to translate as a volunteer. So I am very happy to participate whenever possible.

6. Why do you think it is important to provide free translations for non-profit organisations?

There is much injustice and disparities in this world, but we are all part of it. It should be the concern of everyone to understand what happens out there, and if we are lucky to be able to live in decent conditions, healthily, I think it is the best one can do to help others. As I was commenting before, I am not brave enough to work in the field and abroad, next to the people who need help, but I can give some of my time and skills, while improving myself. Translating for non-profit organisations is a way to participate in this humanitarian initiative and it makes me feel happy.

Raquel Ligero