Lena Traer
Lena Traer
Lena Traer
Lead Project Manager, Wikimedia Foundation
"Planning before work protects you from regret." – Inscription on a bowl, 10th century, Iran

About me

Prior to joining the Wikimedia Foundation in 2016, I provided program and project management support at Heart to Heart, a 501(с)(3) international non-profit in Oakland, CA dedicated to expanding access to cardiac surgery in the underserved areas of the world for children born with life-threatening heart defects.

I grew up in Siberia, Russia and graduated from Omsk State University with a Master of Laws degree, with an emphasis in intellectual property. As a college sophomore, I began working full-time with an agency involved in cultural exchange programs, recruiting Russian students to study and work abroad. Upon completing my degree, I came to San Francisco as a trainee with Intrax Cultural Exchange, a Department of State designated J1 visa sponsor.

I have a lifelong interest in languages, literature, and the interrelation of countries and cultures. I've studied in the UK and worked in the U.S., France and New Zealand. I am bilingual in English and Russian, speak comfortable French and basic Japanese. In my spare time, I translate children’s and YA books – six titles published in Russia to date and five in the U.S.

My work

As a Lead Project Manager in the Communications department, I oversee complex, cross-functional projects and campaigns that advance Wikimedia brands and activities around the world.

In 2020, I led Wikipedia's 20th birthday activities for the Wikimedia Foundation. My main projects in 2021-2023 were a global contest for a sound logo for Wikimedia and Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards in Africa. Key campaign in 2024 is Knowledge is Human.

Disclaimer: I work for or provide services to the Wikimedia Foundation, and this is the account I try to use for edits or statements I make in that role. However, the Foundation does not vet all my activity, so edits, statements, or other contributions made by this account may not reflect the views of the Foundation.

Contact me

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ru-N Русскийродной язык этого участника.
en-5 This user has professional knowledge of English.
fr-3 Cet utilisateur dispose de connaissances avancées en français.
ja-1 この利用者は初級日本語ができます。
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