Emily Francis, who is currently one of our MSc Interpreting and Translating students was awarded a commendation in the Stephen Spender Translation Prize. Entrants, who submit from across the globe, translate a poem from any language into English and attach a commentary on their work. Emily was names one of the Commendees in the Open category for her translation and commentary of Mestiza Soy (I am Mestiza) by Beatriz Alejandra Arboleda.  

Following the online event for the Prize, Emily said: “It was a wonderful event with some very inspiring speakers, and it was great to find out who had won each category and also to hear from the two judges who awarded me my commendation.” She added that she particularly identified with one of the judges’ comments about reading a translated piece of poetry and feeling like “it was the only way it could’ve possibly been translated into English as it just fits so well and has an emotional impact”.  

Many congratulations Emily on this wonderful achievement!