Buket Karakuş’s story is one of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of authenticity. Growing up in Turkey as an only child, her love for languages was evident from an early age. However, her journey was not just about linguistic pursuits but also about navigating her identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community in a traditional society.
Her career path has been equally remarkable, leading her from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the vibrant city of London. Today, as an IP-Trans Project Manager at RWS she stands at the intersection of language and technology, a place where her professional and personal journeys converge.
Early Life and the Spark of Inspiration
Buket’s early years were marked by frequent moves due to her father’s job. By the time she was six, she had lived in several cities, making it difficult to form lasting friendships. Eventually, her family settled in a small town near Istanbul, offering her a quieter upbringing while still being close to the city’s vibrant culture.
Her career aspirations were clear from the start, but her hobbies were a different story. She experimented with various activities, from playing the guitar and piano to making jewelry and practicing martial arts. However, it was ballet that held a special place in her heart, a dream she finally pursued a few years ago.
The Intersection of Language and Technology
Buket’s academic journey took her to Swansea University, where she completed her Master’s degree. Initially, she envisioned a career as a freelance translator, but her path took a different turn when she discovered project management. This field allowed her to bring people together, solve problems, and keep projects moving—a perfect fit for her skills and interests.
Her fascination with the connection between language and technology led her to learn Trados, a computer-assisted translation tool, even though it wasn’t part of her university course. This determination and passion eventually led her to RWS, a company that acquired SDL Trados, making her dream of working there a reality.
Navigating Identity and Finding Acceptance
Growing up in a traditional society, Buket faced significant challenges in understanding and accepting her identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. There were no conversations, no resources, and no one she felt she could talk to about being attracted to more than one gender.
Her coming out moment was unique. At 19, while volunteering for a global youth organization, she found the courage to say, “I’m bi,” during a presentation. The room erupted in applause, and for the first time, she felt completely accepted. This experience not only empowered her but also inspired others to share their own stories.
Despite this progress, Buket has never come out to her family. She understands the importance of respecting different journeys and the varying levels of safety and support that individuals have. Her experiences have shaped her commitment to visibility and inclusion, making her appreciate the acceptance she finds in the UK and at RWS.
The Power of Inclusion
At RWS, Buket has found a workplace that values inclusivity and provides an open space for LGBTQIA+ employees. The company’s employee resource groups bring people together to share experiences and build a sense of community. However, what matters most to Buket is the day-to-day culture of acceptance and respect.
She believes that inclusion should be a year-round commitment, not just something visible during Pride Month or company events. Small changes, like including pronouns in email signatures, can have a lasting impact, making people feel comfortable, respected, and included.
Buket’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of creating environments where people can be their true selves. Her journey serves as an inspiration for others to embrace their identities and strive for a more inclusive world.
