Helena

Hi, my name is Helena. I'm a second-year MA student at UCL taking the course 'English - Issues in Modern Culture'. I'm a freelance editor, writer and translator (Portuguese-English), working with academics, charities and cultural institutions on a range of projects. I'm currently working on a translation of a collection of Brazilian short stories, and pitching my own novella to publishers.

Previously, I've worked with the charity Singing Wells, an archive of East African music and culture, helping to design their forthcoming exhibition at the 2025 Sharjah Art Biennale. Prior to that, I worked with the SHM Foundation and its flagship project Ember Mental Health to uplift their creative communication. I also consulted three education charities associated with SHM on their storytelling and communication. For several years I have also been affiliated with FICA, a Brazilian housing charity, helping to translate and edit their work for American and European audiences at events and exhibitions.

There is no one way of approaching a student since everyone is different and has different needs. However, I like to think that my teaching style combines high expectations with friendliness and empathy. When students believe you think they are capable of achieving anything, they will strive to perform at their best. Building confidence is a great place to start improving, no matter the age or subject.

When I'm not tutoring, I'm writing for my blog at helenacarone.com, working on my MA coursework, and chasing after publishing deals. I'm also a keen weightlifter and swimmer, which takes up most of my early mornings.

My plan for the near future is to finish my MA and focus on my writing, translating, editing, and tutoring.