This year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first big translation conference: ELIA 2025 in Barcelona. To say I was overwhelmed by how amazing it was would be an understatement! The experience left me inspired, energized, and eager to share why I believe every language professional should attend such events. It was not just about gaining knowledge; it was about forming meaningful relationships, learning from experts, and feeling part of a global community that understands and values our profession.
1. Meeting Online Connections in Real Life
If you are active on LinkedIn, you probably engage with many colleagues in the translation industry. But nothing compares to meeting them in person! Finally putting faces to names and having real-life conversations creates stronger, more genuine connections. It’s an entirely different experience from messaging online. I had the chance to talk with people I had known for years through social media, and those conversations turned out to be invaluable. These interactions reinforced the importance of personal networking and how it can positively impact one’s career.
2. Making New Connections and Expanding Your Network
Translation conferences are buzzing with professionals from all over the world. Whether you’re a freelancer, a project manager, or a business owner, there is always someone new to meet. You completely immerse yourself in the atmosphere, exchanging ideas, experiences, and even potential job opportunities. The diversity of attendees means you get to learn about different markets, regional challenges, and trends you may not have been exposed to before.
At ELIA 2025, I met several new people who shared fascinating insights into their local translation industries. Some worked in niche language pairs, while others specialized in highly technical or legal translations. Exchanging business cards and LinkedIn profiles was just the beginning—many of these connections have already led to meaningful professional collaborations.
3. Finding People Who Truly Understand You
One of the most fulfilling aspects of attending ELIA 2025 was sitting down with people who completely understood me. They got my industry jokes, related to my work struggles, and offered insightful perspectives. Conversations flowed effortlessly because we all spoke the same “language” of the translation world.
There’s something incredibly validating about being around people who truly understand the complexities of our work. From discussing the nuances of linguistic accuracy to sharing frustrations about unreasonable deadlines, I felt a deep sense of belonging. The shared experience of working in this field created an immediate bond, one that simply cannot be replicated in online discussions.
4. Gaining Industry Insights and Staying Updated
The translation industry is constantly evolving, with new tools, technologies, and trends emerging every year. Attending a conference allows you to stay ahead of the curve. From expert-led panels to in-depth workshops, you gain valuable insights that can help improve your work and business strategies.
At ELIA 2025, I attended sessions on subtitling best practices, specialization tips, and the role of artificial intelligence in localization. The speakers, who were industry leaders, provided thought-provoking perspectives on where the industry is heading.
5. Boosting Motivation and Career Growth
There’s something truly inspiring about being surrounded by passionate professionals. The energy at a translation conference is contagious, and it reignites your enthusiasm for your career. You return home with fresh ideas, a renewed sense of purpose, and motivation to take your work to the next level.
Before attending ELIA 2025, I had been feeling a little stagnant in my career. But the conference reminded me why I chose this profession in the first place. The discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities reinforced my passion for languages and communication.
6. Enjoying a Change of Scenery
Let’s not forget one of the best perks—traveling! Conferences are often held in fantastic cities, giving you the chance to explore new places, try different cuisines, and enjoy a little getaway while investing in your professional growth.
Attending a conference is not just about work—it’s about enjoying the journey, both professionally and personally. It is a great opportunity to explore new places, try new cuisines, and get to know the local culture.
Final Thoughts
Attending ELIA 2025 was a game-changer for me. It strengthened my network, broadened my knowledge, and reminded me why I love working in this industry. The experience was far more than just an educational opportunity—it was a chance to grow personally and professionally, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain fresh perspectives on the industry.
If you’ve ever considered attending a translation conference but hesitated, I encourage you to take the plunge. You won’t regret it! The benefits far outweigh any initial doubts or logistical concerns. Conferences like ELIA are investments in your future, providing knowledge, connections, and inspiration that last well beyond the event itself.
Adriana Nesheva ([email protected]), an English to Bulgarian translator for beauty and fashion brands.