I was born and raised in Canada. I got my degree in Asian studies from University of Victoria. I also spent a year on exchange at Doshisha University in Kyoto. I got my Japanese Proficiency Exam (JLPT) Level 1 Certification in February of 2005.

I spent four years working as a Coordinator of International Relations on the JET Programme doing translation, interpretation, and cultural liason work with the Tokushima Prefectural Government. I also have experience doing translation and interpreting for groups involved in theater and the arts.

I have been doing freelance translation since 2007. Much of my work has focused on arts, traditional handicrafts, and tourism. I did the English translations on the PingMag MAKE site, and I handled development of the English version of the in Kamiyama website which focuses on art activities in a rural Japanese community.