Vuyisa Sigonyela
Linguist, Coordinator
Johannesburg
Summary
I am a dynamic and innovative linguist with over 6 years of experience in translation and localization, adept at managing diverse projects from inception to completion. Proven track record of coordinating successful initiatives while fostering strong relationships with stakeholders through exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Recognized for a commitment to reliability and flexibility, ensuring project goals are met with precision and efficiency. Passionate about leveraging linguistic expertise to drive impactful results.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Freelance Language Translator (Sacred Materials)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
03.2019 - Current
- I have been working as a sacred materials translator. Translating a range of items, including church publications, magazines, scripture, correspondence, and more. I have translated and edited more than 10 million words with multiple roles and projects over the years. My responsibility has primarily been translating and editing texts from English into IsiXhosa. This opportunity allowed me to develop my translation abilities as a linguist and obtain practical experience working with other language professionals.
- Collaborated with fellow translators and worked with supervisors to maintain consistency across large-scale projects and deliver high-quality work.
- Attended regular training to remain knowledgeable on current best practices and translation management services.
Freelance Music Transcreator
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
05.2022 - 06.2025
- I was involved in a 3 year project creating a 'Xhosa' hymn book. My role was more than translating the hymns' text from the Source language to the Target language, but rather bridging cultural and linguistic gaps in the music, writing poetry, ensuring that songs resonate with the target audience, while maintaining the original essence and meaning of the original text.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts attending meetings with a supervisor based in Utah.
Communications Specialist (Contract)
Maddis'son Tombstones
09.2023 - 03.2024
- Managed communication and project expectations. We were having approximately 30 incoming calls and emails per day from customers.
- I led and coordinated a project to develop the company website, set standards regarding English grammar usage, clarity, conciseness, style and terminology.
- Managed relationships with external business stakeholders
Editorial Translator
Newsframe
09.2021 - 10.2021
- Photojournalist, linguist that worked along senior journalists handling sensitive and confidential information around Social Justice Publications
- Proofread documents to ensure accuracy and quality of work. Worked on 30 articles, editing not less 2500 words per article and submitted 100 images ( Photographed and edited).
Voice Over Artist & Language Editor (Vendor)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
01.2019 - 12.2019
- I have worked as a freelance language editor and voice talent for the publishing services division in a language production for sacred works. The voice project was for 24 months
- Successfully worked on multiple projects include text simultaneously by prioritizing tasks effectively according to deadlines and client needs.
Education
BA Honors Degree - Applied Linguistics
University of South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa04-2026
Certificate - Data Analytics
ALX Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa12-2025
Post Grad Diploma - Business Analysis
Rhodes University (Hybrid)
Makhanda03.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Rhodes University
Makhanda03.2023
Matric - (Majored in Science)
David Mama Senior Secondary School
East London12.2014
Skills
Project Management Skills (I have excellent organisational skills, with the ability to focus on detail and manage my time wisely)
Proficiency with translation and business management tools (ie World-server, Trados studios, Plunet, translation support and etc)
Team leadership- collaboration, Coaching and Interpersonal communication
Multi lingual with mastery of spoken and written language ( English, IsiXhosa, IsiZulu, Krio, SASL)
Strong computer skills including advanced Microsoft
Compassionate leader and a problem solver
CAT tool mastery
Ability to work under pressure
Certification
[Launching Leaders Graduate] Ethical Leadership' certified by BYU Management Society
Timeline
Communications Specialist (Contract)
Maddis'son Tombstones
09.2023 - 03.2024
Freelance Music Transcreator
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
05.2022 - 06.2025
Editorial Translator
Newsframe
09.2021 - 10.2021
Freelance Language Translator (Sacred Materials)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
03.2019 - Current
Voice Over Artist & Language Editor (Vendor)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
01.2019 - 12.2019
BA Honors Degree - Applied Linguistics
University of South Africa
Certificate - Data Analytics
ALX Africa
Post Grad Diploma - Business Analysis
Rhodes University (Hybrid)
Bachelor of Arts - Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Rhodes University
Matric - (Majored in Science)
David Mama Senior Secondary School