Forget the freelance struggle, go to a conference!
The reality for most translators in Africa is that we are battling lower pay and sometimes project scarcity than our counterparts elsewhere in the world. We are therefore always cautious about spending on ‘luxury’ because we have to manage well the little we get and possibly save for a rainy day. For this reason, translation conferences are consequently always at the bottom of our to-do list, if at all they feature in the lists, and they aren’t something that we are ready to invest in.
But that should not be the case!
The translation world is fast evolving, so we have to stay ahead of the curve always! With technology, AI, changing language dynamics, declining rates, and a more saturated market, we can no longer underplay the need for continuous professional development and just interacting with other professionals for perspective. What else would offer that opportunity better than translation conferences?
A personal experience
The first-ever translation conference I attended was also the first ever translation conference to be organized by African translators in the African content. The conference was dubbed ‘First Africa International Translation Conference’ (AITCO) and it was held in Nairobi in February 2019. This conference was organized by The East Africa Interpreters and Translators Association https://eaita.org/. I had a chance to present a paper and speak on how translation can be used to conserve indigenous languages. The event was captured by Nimdzi and my presentation was highlighted https://www.nimdzi.com/conference-report-1st-africa-international-translation-conference/
Since this conference, I have never looked back and I made it a point to attend any translation conference that is within my means to attend, the highlight being the IAPTI 2023 conference in Timisoara, Romania. Being in a different part of the world and experiencing that very different culture left me with valuable perspective and memories. The latest conference I attended was AITCO 2024 in Kigali Rwanda, and I have never been to a more vibrant, engaging, and educative conference than this one. I have to say that I was part of the organizing committee and it was such a fulfilling experience from the planning to execution. Below is my take as to why translators should invest in going to translation conferences.
Connections and contacts
Nothing will offer you the opportunity to network with fellow professionals like a conference. Translation conferences bring together professionals from diverse nationalities, backgrounds, and specialties, offering a unique opportunity to network with other translators, potential clients, and industry influencers. By talking to other attendees, participating in the conference sessions, and attending social events that are part of the conference, you can build meaningful relationships that may lead to collaboration opportunities, referrals, or valuable insights into different aspects of the industry.
Source of Inspiration
Working as a freelance translator can get pretty isolating, as we spend long hours alone behind our computer screens. Translation conferences provide a welcome opportunity to break out of this solitude and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for language and communication. The energy, enthusiasm, and achievements of fellow attendees can be infectious and can motivate and remind you that there is a lot you can achieve as a freelancer. It is at conferences where I have gotten to learn how fellow freelancers are investing in palatial homes and other commercial ventures to ensure that when they eventually hang up their translation boots, their lives will go on smoothly. As a result, my outlook on life has completely changed and I know that there is nothing out of my reach as a freelancer. If others are succeeding, I too will succeed!
Visibility
I have come to learn that attending translation conferences can help raise your profile within the industry and enhance your credibility as a professional translator. Whether you’re presenting a paper, participating in a panel discussion, or simply engaging in conversations with fellow attendees, these are opportunities to showcase your expertise can help you stand out in a crowded field. Moreover, by staying active and visible within the translation community, you may become the first person potential clients or collaborators think of when they need services that are aligned with the ones you offer.
Knowledge acquisition
I believe that there is no way one can attend a translation conference and leave it without having learned something new or gaining a new perspective on relevant issues. The presentations by keynote speakers, key industry players, and fellow translators, certainly provide invaluable opportunities to deepen your understanding of translation issues whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out. These conferences often feature sessions on marketing strategies, best practices for freelancers among other insightful topics, and can help you hone your entrepreneurial skills and navigate the challenges of running a successful translation business. Moreover, exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences can inspire new ideas for getting the most out of freelancing.
What I would advise then, is that as a freelancer, do not just look at translation conferences as optional, make it a point to attend even just one conference in a year. I promise you will get value of the time and the money you spend on it! A quick search on the internet and following social media pages of industry associations and other players will keep you updated on upcoming conferences, and so it is possible to pick one that interests you and plan to attend it. As a matter of fact, you can start planning for AITCO 2025 which will take place in February 2025 in Zanzibar, Tanzania! Follow https://www.facebook.com/groups/245762139433616 for more information.
Mark your calendar and get ready to learn, network, and get inspired at the next translation conference near you!
By: Lilliane Oloo, a freelance translator and interpreter