Hi there! 👋
I’m Nene Gaines, a bilingual translator with a passion for ensuring every translation conveys not just words, but meaning and intent.
I’m passionate about connection, about finding the common thread between people, cultures, and stories that makes us all feel a little closer to one another.
When I translate, I don’t just focus on accuracy; I focus on making sure that your message feels just as real, relatable, and impactful in another language.
The "How I Got Here" Story
It all started when I was in college, interpreting for a group of students traveling across five countries. The experience was wild—chaotic, unpredictable, but also eye-opening.
I quickly saw how language was so much more than just grammar and vocabulary. It was about making people feel understood. It was about clarifying ideas and helping people feel confident in their communication. I realized how powerful a well-chosen word can be—how much it can change the course of a conversation.
Having lived in France, Senegal, and Canada, I’ve absorbed more than just the language. I’ve absorbed the culture, the unspoken meanings, the jokes that don’t translate, and the nuances that make people who they are. It’s about understanding that the words you use aren’t just words—they carry emotions, traditions, and, sometimes, a little bit of humor.
I know what it feels like to try and express yourself in a language that isn’t your own. The awkwardness, the overthinking, the fear of not being understood correctly.
That’s why I do what I do—to make sure that your voice gets heard the way you mean it.
Alongside my work as a translator, I have over 20 years of experience in finance, budgeting, and IT program management with U.S. government agencies.
In these roles, I’ve been directly responsible for managing projects, contracts and overseeing financial planning, helping organizations navigate complex processes to stay compliant and maximize their resource use.
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When I'm not busy translating…
You’ll probably find me curled up with a good book (some of my favorites include Guy de Maupassant and Wole Soyinka), watching some French TV shows like Envoyé Spécial and Fort Boyard or performing music.
