My professional training as an editor was earned from Simon Fraser University, where I completed my Editing Certificate Program in Fall 2022.   Here, I gained a solid practical and theoretical understanding of the process of editing books and web publications.

I have received specialty training in line editing for creative nonfiction and fiction with the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), of which I am a member.  This will enable me to work with authors such as you to clarify wording and phrases and smooth the flow of language.  At present, I am also engaged in EFA training for the developmental editing of fiction.  I can help you with the big-picture aspects of your work, such as narrative development plot, story arc, and characterization.

I also bring an MA in English Literature (with thesis) to the table.  During my time in academia, I learned to refine my own writing and recognize qualities of effective prose and fiction; I developed strong written communication skills, laying the foundation for future editing work.

As an editor, I am also drawing on years of experience in coaching students in writing university essays, both as a course instructor and as a teaching assistant.  I discovered a love of helping others find their voice and bring their ideas to fruition in the written form. 

I have edited several self-published books, gaining practical experience in working with independent authors. The creative nonfiction book, Healthy with Hanifa, is a holistic women’s health and nutrition book that I copyedited.  I also edited a children’s book, The Amazing Story of a Girl Named Murple, refining wording, rhyming, and suggesting changes to illustrative details. The most recent work I edited was a youth ministry book entitled Now or Never (by Dez Johnston), which has just been published on Amazon (Kindle and print).

My research and writing ability were also demonstrated through contracted writing for municipal government (an extensive art exhibition catalogue entitled Reflections of Gloucester).  I have also proofread the French database of the Encyclopedia of Music in Canada (to remove conversion errors) for the National Library of Canada.

When I’m not editing with a latte in hand, I can be found walking amongst fields and forests in the beautiful natural surroundings of Ottawa, cooking new recipes, or searching out vintage, cottage-inspired clothes and décor.