Dr Irene Strasly

Irene Strasly is a translator, sign language interpreter, researcher, and educator based in Geneva, Switzerland. Her professional work focuses on sign languages, accessibility, inclusive communication, and the training of future translators and interpreters. She teaches and conducts research at the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting of the University of Geneva, where she works closely with deaf communities, sign language professionals, and international partners to improve access to information, healthcare, education, and culture.

Her journey into the world of sign languages began as a hearing person fascinated by language, communication, and human connection. Learning Italian and French Sign Languages (LIS and LSF) and later working with deaf colleagues transformed the way she understands language, culture, and accessibility. Since then, she has dedicated much of her career to supporting projects that are designed with deaf people rather than simply for deaf people.

Beyond her academic and professional work, music has always been an important part of her life. She is also a harpist and has a particular interest in the relationship between music, accessibility, and wellbeing. This personal passion is one of the reasons she was drawn to Audiovisability’s vision of making music and the arts accessible to everyone and challenging assumptions about deafness and musical experience.

As a Trustee, Irene is delighted to contribute her experience in accessibility, sign languages, education, and international collaboration while learning from the remarkable deaf artists, musicians, and advocates who make Audiovisability such an inspiring organisation. She believes that accessibility is not simply about removing barriers—it is about creating spaces where different ways of communicating, creating, and experiencing the world are valued equally. Joining Audiovisability represents a natural extension of both her professional work and her personal convictions.