I was born and grew up in Cologne.
In 1989 I graduated as an accredited translator at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule Köln). In 1992 I received the additional certificate as graduate interpreter. I have been working as a freelance translator for publishing companies, business and organizations since 1986.
I have been working as a tourist guide in Cologne since 1986. I was trained during my studies by the City of Cologne and I still sometimes guide tours arranged by the Cologne Tourist Board.
I am a founding member of the Cologne Guide Association Kölner Stadtführer e.V. as well as a member of the Association of Tourist Guides in Germany (BVGD).
I received the national certificate as tourist guide following the guidelines of the BVGD in 1998. Since autumn 2010 I am certified according to the new European Norm EN 15565.
Furthermore I have a long experience in teaching and have worked in adult education courses and in inhouse language trainings in companies.