Introduction
As someone passionate about technical translations, I have always been drawn to two fields: life sciences and technology. While both areas interest me, technology has become my primary focus due to its accessibility and the numerous opportunities it offers. Within the realm of technology, I have developed a strong interest in localization and internationalization, which enable people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds to access and engage with technology. I believe that localization and internationalization are essential components of creating inclusive and user-friendly technology.
Getting Started with Coding and Open-Source Contributions
In 2017, I began contributing to free and open-source software (FOSS) projects as a translator. My initial projects included translating WordPress themes and plugins, as well as the VLC media player. This experience led to my recruitment by a French company as an Arabic software localization specialist. Although my contributions eventually became sponsored, I continued to work on various projects in my free time. Contributing to FOSS projects has not only helped me develop my technical skills but also given me the opportunity to connect with other developers and enthusiasts from around the world.
Personal Projects and Learning Experiences
In addition to my professional work, I have been investing time in learning Japanese and reading non-fiction books. I have also been working on improving my software engineering skills, with a focus on creating mobile apps and WordPress themes. One of my personal projects involved building a Flutter app, which taught me a great deal about practical coding and debugging. Although I faced numerous challenges and setbacks during the development process, I was able to gain valuable insights into the app development process. After investing over 250 hours in coding and debugging, I was able to fix most of the errors, but I still encountered a runtime error. Despite this setback, I was able to learn more about debugging and troubleshooting, which has been invaluable in my future projects.
Revisiting FOSS Contributions
Recently, I received emails from WordPress reminding me to update my profile and highlight my contributions. This prompted me to re-evaluate the importance of FOSS contributions and how they can enhance my skills as a localization engineer. To further develop my expertise, I obtained three new certificates from Lokalise related to software localization. These certificates have given me a deeper understanding of the localization process and have equipped me with the skills necessary to tackle complex localization projects.
Benefits of FOSS Contributions
Contributing to FOSS projects has numerous benefits. For instance, it allows me to practice my localization skills, gain in-depth knowledge of various software projects, and connect with other enthusiasts and translation managers. Moreover, contributing to FOSS projects enables me to give back to the community and develop my skills in using different tools and technologies. By contributing to FOSS projects, I am not only improving my own skills but also helping to create technology that is more accessible and inclusive.
WordPress Contributions
My contributions to WordPress have been particularly rewarding. By translating plugins and themes, I have been able to create a comprehensive glossary of technical terms. This glossary has not only improved my own knowledge but also helped others in the WordPress community. Furthermore, my contributions have been publicly recognized, allowing me to connect with other WordPress enthusiasts and receive feedback on my work. I believe that contributing to WordPress has been an invaluable experience, as it has given me the opportunity to develop my skills, connect with others, and give back to the community.
H5P Contributions
One of the most fulfilling projects I have contributed to is H5P, a free and open-source learning management system (LMS). As the translator editor for the Arabic language, I have been able to translate the entire app. This contribution has not only helped me develop my localization skills but also enabled Arabic-speaking users to access and utilize the H5P platform. I believe that contributing to projects like H5P is essential, as it promotes digital inclusivity and bridges the gap between technology and diverse linguistic communities. By contributing to H5P, I have been able to make a positive impact on the lives of others and help create a more inclusive and equitable technological landscape.
AppFlowy Contributions
In addition to my work on WordPress and H5P, I have also contributed to AppFlowy, a free and open-source note-taking and knowledge management app. By translating the app and contributing to its documentation, I have been able to develop my skills in using new tools and technologies, such as Weblate and inlang. Moreover, contributing to AppFlowy has allowed me to connect with other business owners, developers and enthusiasts, further expanding my network and knowledge. I am excited to continue contributing to AppFlowy and help create a more inclusive and user-friendly app.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my journey in technical translations, localization, and open-source contributions has been incredibly rewarding. Through my experiences, I have been able to acquire practical knowledge, develop my skills, and connect with like-minded individuals. As I continue on this path, I am excited to see where it will lead and how I can further contribute to the FOSS community, promoting digital inclusivity and bridging the gap between technology and diverse linguistic communities. I believe that my experiences have not only helped me grow as a professional but also given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Future Plans and Goals
As I move forward, I plan to continue contributing to FOSS projects, expanding my skills and knowledge in localization, internationalization, and software development. I also hope to mentor others who are interested in pursuing careers in technical translations and localization. Furthermore, I aim to create my own open-source projects, leveraging my skills and expertise to create technology that is accessible and inclusive.
Final Thoughts
In closing, I would like to emphasize the importance of community involvement and giving back to the FOSS community. By contributing to FOSS projects, we not only improve our own skills and knowledge but also help create technology that is more accessible, inclusive, and equitable. I encourage others to join me on this journey, and together, let’s create a more inclusive and technologically advanced world.