Meet Our Trainers - Translation and Training Center

Expert Reviser and Interpreting Trainer

Mazen Alfarhan joined Hamad Bin Khalifa University in 2013 as a reviser and interpreting trainer. Currently, he is the Acting Director of the Translation and Training Center. With 23 years of unparalleled experience in the fields of translation and interpreting, Mazen has distinguished himself both as a professional and an educator.

Professional Excellence: Mazen interpreted at over 220 high-profile events, providing services to world leaders such as Kofi Annan, Mahathir Mohamad, Pervez Musharraf, Romano Prodi, Javier Solana, and Sergio de Mello. His professional acumen ensures top-tier interpretation, making every event seamless and effective.

Academic Leadership: In the realm of academia, Mazen has a rich history of teaching, having instructed translation at the undergraduate level (2002 to 2008) and conference interpreting at the master’s level (2007 to 2013). As a trainer, he has led 33 training workshops and programs, totaling over 700 hours of instruction between 2013 and 2024. His courses are known for their depth, rigor, and practical application.

Impressive Credentials: Mazen holds two MA degrees—one in Diplomacy from SOAS and another in Translation & Interpreting from Heriot-Watt University. He also has a Graduate Diploma in Arabization and a BA in English, both from Damascus University. His commitment to professional development is ongoing, with additional training from prestigious institutions such as London Metropolitan University, the University of Geneva, and Saint Joseph University.

Public Engagement: Mazen is a familiar voice on Qatar Radio and Qatar TV, where he regularly discusses translation and interpreting issues. His insights are also shared through articles in local newspapers, contributing to public understanding and appreciation of the field.

Awards and Recognition: Mazen’s contributions have earned him three Professional Excellence Awards from Qatar Foundation. His translation of a healthcare interpreting manual, published by Geneva University Hospitals, won the Best Translation Poster award in 2017 from HBKU. Additionally, he is a proud recipient of the Chevening Scholarship and the Said Scholarship.

Mazen Alfarhan’s blend of professional experience, academic leadership, and public engagement makes him a standout figure in the field of translation and interpreting. Join his workshops and programs to learn from the best and elevate your skills to new heights!

Expert in Translation and Mentorship

Nabeel Rashid is a leading translation reviser at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Translation and Training Center, where he plays a crucial role in mentoring MA interns in translation studies. His dedication to guiding the next generation of translators is matched by his extensive experience in the field.

A Rich Professional Background: Nabeel’s career spans diverse domains, including his role as an accredited court translator and registered health care interpreter in Vancouver, Canada. His impressive portfolio features work with the Ministry of Justice, the Provincial Health Authority, and human rights organizations like the UN’s Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture.

Academic Excellence: Nabeel holds a postgraduate diploma in healthcare and community translation from Vancouver Community College, along with BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Baghdad. His academic journey also includes lecturing at his alma mater, showcasing his deep understanding of both language and education.

Specialization in Sports Translation: With a specialization in sports translation, Nabeel has contributed to high-profile projects for the Qatar Olympic Committee and the Doha Asian Games Organizing Committee. His work includes translating and revising major publications like “Vancouver Olympic Games: IOC Gathering and OG Events” (2010) and “The Moment of Lifetime: A Documentary on Sports History in Qatar” (2007).

Professional Affiliations Nabeel is member of several prominent translation and teaching societies, including the Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia, the American Translators Association, and the Association of Canadian College and University Teachers of English. His affiliations underscore his commitment to the profession and ongoing contributions to the field.

Discover the opportunity to learn from an expert with a wealth of experience and a passion for mentoring the next generation of translation professionals.

Senior Translation Specialist and Reviser

Sayed Mohamed has been a Senior Translation Specialist at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Translation and Training Center since August 2014, where he excels in delivering high-quality translation services and training Translation Studies MA students during their internships.

Extensive Experience: With over 15 years of experience, Sayed has worked across diverse fields including politics, literature, fine arts, law, medicine, education, media, and publishing. His broad expertise ensures that he brings depth and versatility to every project.

Professional Background: Before joining Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Sayed was a Translation Specialist at Qatar Foundation’s Communication Directorate. He also gained valuable experience at Nahdet Misr Publishing Group, where he progressed from a translator to a publishing executive, further honing his skills in the industry.

Educational Excellence: Sayed holds a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from Ain Shams University, Egypt, and a master’s degree in Translation Studies from Hamad Bin Khalifa University. His commitment to continuous learning is evident from his training at prestigious institutions, including a six-day knowledge transfer workshop with the Economist Group, a specialized training program for Arab publishers by the Goethe Institute in Cairo, and a project management course based on PMI’s methodology.

Join Sayed Mohamed: With a wealth of experience and a strong educational background, Sayed Mohamed is dedicated to excellence in translation and training. His workshops and training programs are ideal for those looking to elevate their translation skills and gain insights from a seasoned expert in the field.

Expert Translator and Educator

Dr. Hisham Ali brings over 15 years of extensive translation experience across diverse industries, including business, finance, communication, media, tourism, and publishing. With a PhD in Translation Studies from the prestigious University of Leuven in Belgium, Dr. Ali combines academic excellence with practical expertise.

Professional Excellence: Dr. Ali's career is marked by hands-on training at internationally renowned institutions, including The Economist Group in London. His professional journey has equipped him with a profound understanding of industry-specific translation needs, ensuring high-quality and precise translations.

Academic Contributions: Dr. Ali is not only a practitioner but also a respected academic. He has delivered insightful presentations on translation at esteemed institutions such as the University of Leeds, the University of Leuven, the University of Nottingham, and the Institute of Culture Studies and Theatre History in Vienna. His contributions to the academic community reflect his deep commitment to advancing the field of translation.

Accreditations: As a sworn legal translator accredited by the UAE Ministry of Justice, Dr. Ali upholds the highest standards of accuracy and professionalism in legal translation, further solidifying his reputation as a trusted expert.

Join Dr. Hisham Ali: Whether you're looking to refine your translation skills or gain insights from a seasoned expert, Dr. Hisham Ali offers unparalleled knowledge and experience. His workshops and training programs are designed to elevate your proficiency in translation, making them an invaluable opportunity for professionals in the field.

Expert in Translation and Linguistic Technology

Wahba Youssef brings a wealth of academic knowledge to his role, holding a master’s degree in applied Linguistics from the University of Birmingham, a BA in International Business and Management from Bournemouth University, and a BA from the Faculty of Alsun (Languages) at Ain Shams University in Egypt. His academic foundation is further supported by a diploma in Information Systems Analysis and Design from NCC Education Institution. Wahba is also certified in leading translation technologies, including Trados Studio, Trados MultiTerm Desktop, and MemoQ Level PM.

Professional Journey: Wahba’s professional career began in Egypt at Dar El Farouk Publishing House, where he worked as an English-Arabic translator, specializing in disciplines such as information technology, medicine, finance, and investment. He then joined Future Group, Egypt’s leading translation agency, as a senior translator. Here, he honed his skills with various CAT tools like Trados Studio, Wordfast Pro, and MemoQ.

In 2007, Wahba transitioned to a financial translator and reviewer role at Ernst & Young in Kuwait. Following this, he relocated to London, where he contracted with local and international clients for six years, providing translation services enhanced by innovative translation technology applications.

Current Role: Today, Wahba is a senior translation specialist at the Translation and Training Center. He oversees the translation technology function at the center, promoting the use of advanced tools and project management techniques. His efforts also focus on building comprehensive terminology databases for specialized translation tracks, ensuring accuracy and consistency in translation services.

Join Wahba Youssef: Wahba Youssef’s extensive experience and deep understanding of translation technology make him a valuable asset to any translation project. His workshops and training sessions offer unique insights into the application of cutting-edge translation tools, making them essential for professionals looking to elevate their skills in the translation industry.

Leading Expert in Translation and Pedagogy

Dr. Ahmed Alaoui led the translation services at the Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Translation and Training Center between 2013 and 2020. In that role, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality and scope of translation initiatives. Before joining HBKU, Dr. Alaoui served as a Professor of Translation and Head of the Professional BA Translation Program at Ibn Tufayl University in Morocco.

Academic Credentials: Dr. Alaoui holds a PhD in Translation and a master’s degree in Linguistics. He is an esteemed graduate of the University of Wales and the University of Essex in England. His academic and research pursuits have been centered on translation pedagogy, particularly translator training. His latest publication, Translation: A Practical Guide for English-Arabic Translators, encapsulates over 20 years of teaching translation at both graduate and postgraduate levels. In addition to his book, Dr. Alaoui has authored numerous articles on translation pedagogy.

International Recognition: Dr. Alaoui’s expertise is internationally recognized. He has been a Visiting Scholar at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA, and the University of Nantes, France. His professional qualifications include certification as a translator by the United Nations (Roster) and the Ministry of Justice of the Kingdom of Morocco.

Leadership in Translation Projects: Before his tenure at HBKU, Dr. Alaoui was the Translation Project Manager at Interlangues Ltd, where he provided top-tier translation and revision services to both national and international organizations. His vast experience in legal translation has made him a sought-after leader of Legal Translation workshops for over two decades.

Join Dr. Ahmed Alaoui: Dr. Ahmed Alaoui’s extensive knowledge and experience in translation and pedagogy make him an invaluable resource for those seeking to advance their skills in translation. His workshops and publications offer unparalleled insights and practical guidance, making them essential for professionals in the field of translation and interpreting.

Media and Medical Translation Expert

Dr. Ashraf Abdel Fattah is a distinguished media and translation expert with a wealth of experience and expertise. Formerly an Assistant Professor at the Translation and Interpreting Institute of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Dr. Abdel Fattah holds a PhD in Translation Studies from the University of Manchester. His extensive background spans translation, interpreting, and journalism, making him a leader in the field.

Professional Excellence: Dr. Abdel Fattah served as the Middle East Bulletin Editor at Associated Press Television News (APTN) in London for 13 years, where he honed his skills in media and communication. In addition, he worked as a senior live broadcast interpreter for Al Jazeera Media Network and Al Araby TV in Doha, showcasing his exceptional interpreting abilities.

Academic and Medical Expertise: Dr. Abdel Fattah’s academic career is marked by his tenure as an Assistant Professor, where he imparted knowledge and mentored the next generation of translators and interpreters. He also has extensive experience in medical translation and interpreting, and in teaching medical translation. Uniquely, Dr. Abdel Fattah is also a qualified medical doctor, bringing a depth of understanding to his work in medical translation.

Join Dr. Ashraf Abdel Fattah: With his unparalleled expertise in media, translation, and medical fields, Dr. Abdel Fattah offers a unique perspective and invaluable insights. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills in translation and interpreting or seeking specialized knowledge in medical translation, Dr. Abdel Fattah’s workshops and programs are an opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry.

Expert in Translation, Editing, and Content Development

Abdullah Zaki brings over 14 years of rich experience in translation, editing, and writing across various fields, including public relations, marketing, and publishing. As the Arabic Content Lead at a prestigious international CEO advisory firm, Abdullah has been instrumental in managing Arabic-language media and promotional content for a diverse array of prominent organizations and entities in Qatar. His notable clients include the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, Qatar Museums, Northwestern University in Qatar, University College London Qatar, Sidra Medicine, Vodafone, Aspire Zone, Hyundai, and Maersk Oil, along with several ministries, government agencies, and private companies.

Career Highlights:

• Qatar Foundation: Abdullah’s tenure at Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development saw him excel as a translator and editor within the publishing department of the Communications Directorate. He played a key role in the translation and editing of numerous publications, including the “Telegraph” newspaper and “The Foundation” magazine.
• Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: As a translator and digital content developer, Abdullah collaborated with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and other government entities, showcasing his ability to handle high-stakes projects with precision and expertise.

• Jarir Bookstore: Abdullah’s contributions as a translator enriched the translated books department, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled professional in the field.

  Academic Credentials: Abdullah holds a Master of Arts degree in Audio-Visual Translation Studies from Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Languages and Translation with honors from Al-Azhar University in Cairo. In addition, he has earned a diploma in digital media from the American University in Cairo.
  
  Join Abdullah Zaki: With a proven track record of excellence and a deep commitment to his craft, Abdullah Zaki stands out as a leading expert in translation, editing, and content development. His extensive experience and academic achievements make him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking high-quality Arabic content and translation services.

Expert Academic and Professional Translator

Dr. Hossam Al-Sharkawy is a distinguished academician and professional translator with an impressive career spanning over 17 years. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Translation and Linguistics at the Faculty of Languages and Translation, Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Dr. Al-Sharkawy has a rich background in both academia and professional practice.

Professional Expertise: Before joining Al-Azhar University, Dr. Al-Sharkawy worked as a senior translator and reviewer at numerous esteemed institutions across and beyond the Gulf region. His extensive portfolio includes the translation of numerous published works in various fields, as well as significant projects for renowned entities such as Jarir Publications, Telegraph, Foundation Magazine, and QF Documentary Books.

Dr. Al-Sharkawy has also contributed to various translation projects for Qatar Foundation members, including Education City Universities, Hamad Medical Corporation, Translation and Interpreting Institute, Qatar Museums, Qatar Career Fair, ROTA, Research & Development, Qatar Academies, and SIDRA.

Leadership in Translation: As a former translation manager at Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Dr. Al-Sharkawy translated several critical governmental documents, including the Abu Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual (USDM) and the Abu Dhabi Safety and Security Planning Manual (SSPM). 

His expertise extends to working as a certified translator for numerous global companies such as OTAK International (USA and UAE), KEO International Consultants (UAE), Switch Media (Qatar), Gem Advertising & Publication (Qatar), Qtrans Language Solutions (USA), Smart Legal Translation Group (KSA), Tarjama (UAE), and DANA Legal Translation Bureau (UAE).

Academic Credentials: Dr. Al-Sharkawy’s academic journey is equally impressive. He holds a PhD in Translation and Linguistics, a master’s degree in Translation and Linguistics, and a bachelor’s degree in Simultaneous Interpreting, all from Al-Azhar University, Cairo. His education is further enriched by training from some of the world’s most respected institutions, including the American University in Cairo, Amideast, and the British Council in Cairo.

Join Dr. Hossam Al-Sharkawy: With a profound commitment to excellence in translation and linguistics, Dr. Hossam Al-Sharkawy continues to be a leading figure in his field. His extensive experience, combined with his academic rigor, makes him an invaluable asset for any organization seeking top-tier translation and linguistic services.