20
Feb 2025
Together 2025
20-21 February
Barcelona, Spain

About Together 2025

We’re excited to invite you to ELIA Together 2025, happening on February 20-21 in the lively city of Barcelona. Join us for the ninth edition of this prestigious event, where industry experts, language service companies, and freelancers will gather together to explore the future of industry.

PROGRAMME

This year’s theme, “Shaping the Future of Translation Together,” focuses on how the language industry is adapting to modern challenges through collaboration and technology. With a world of rapid technological advancements, Together 2025 will explore how we can harness the best of both worlds – human expertise and AI-driven tools – to thrive in the face of change.  The programme will feature the two following tracks:

Expect insightful presentations, interactive workshops, and opportunities for engaging conversations that inspire forward-thinking solutions and support the industry’s human touch. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, collaborate, and shape the future of our industry, together!

  • 20 Feb
    Day 1
  • 21 Feb
    Day 2
  • Track A – A new chapter begins…
  • Track B – …but don’t miss the fine print
08:30 – 09:00  
Open Registration

09:00 – 09:20  
Event Opening

09:20 – 10:10  
Value, not Wordcounts: Human-Centered Translation in our Tech-Driven World

In this keynote, we will explore the current state of the translation Show more...industry in the face of rapid technological advancements, particularly the rise of AI. We will discuss the evolving demands of the market, the changing role of translators, and the opportunities for innovation and collaboration in defining the future of language services.

Mirko Plitt photo
Mirko Plitt
WHO Academy
Multilingualism Lead
10:10 – 10:40  
Coffee break

10:40 – 11:00  
Building a Resilient Community for Uncertain Times

How can we create a resilient community which is both flexible Show more...and adaptable as times are changing? How can we look after each other to stay resilient in our industry? Human translators are not going anywhere but are their roles changing? LSPs are quicker to adapt to change but can they do this without leaving the translators out of the equation? And in doing so, can they recognise the mental effects of these challenging times on freelancers?

Ceyda Aldemir-Down photo
Ceyda Aldemir-Down
Freelance Translator
11:05 – 11:25  
Is Empathy an Important Aspect in Translation?

Translation’s undergoing a lot of challenges due to the emergence of AI. Show more... With it comes a steady increase in employing AI resources for jobs that were once carried out by humans. Is this practice reducing translation to an emotionless task? Humans use languages to communicate, like bees dance or birds sing for their peers--not just to spread information but also to share feelings of happiness or compassion. Aren’t shared emotions and experiences what ultimately weaves the threads of community? When reading a translated copy, people want to feel seen and cared for. Can words alone succeed in this quest?

Fabiana Noto photo
Fabiana Noto
Freelance Translator
11:30 – 12:15  
UX and the University: When your Expertise Gets you Sent Back to School

If you suddenly got a call asking you to give a university-level Show more...course on your job, would you say "challenge accepted"? I did, and now I’m one experience richer in the field. A German university came to me for an undergraduate course on game localisation, and I stepped up. Find out how it happened, how I approached it, the logistics of teaching an international hybrid course, how successful it was, and the big question: was it financially worth it? I’ll talk about how I interfaced my practice with the academic world.

Kyle Wohlmut photo
Kyle Wohlmut
The Language Collective
Freelance Translator
12:15 – 12:45  
Coffee break

12:45 – 13:30  
Fast-Forwarding Localisation Partnerships: An Enhanced Buyer-Freelancer Collaboration

Uber’s Globalisation team is boosting its focus on the combination Show more...of quality and scalability by forming long-term partnerships with experienced localisation experts - one for each language. These freelancers manage and ensure quality up and downstream, facilitating continuous improvement and seamless communication among all parties involved in the localisation process. This session will explore our successful buyer-freelancer collaboration model, emphasising some of the critical skills required in the language service industry to adapt to evolving demands. Attendees will gain insights into building effective partnerships and fostering talent to meet future industry needs, including how roles evolve in the AI era.

Marta Nieto Cayuela photo
Marta Nieto Cayuela
Uber
Localisation Experience Program Manager
Damián Fernández photo
Damián Fernández
Spanish Language Specialist
Freelance
13:30 – 15:00  
Lunch

15:00 – 18:00  
Together Job Fair

For more information about the Job Fair and the participating Show more...companies, please click here.

20:00 – 00:00  
Networking Dinner

08:30 – 09:00  
Open Registration

09:00 – 09:20  
Event Opening

09:20 – 10:10  
Value, not Wordcounts: Human-Centered Translation in our Tech-Driven World

In this keynote, we will explore the current state of the translation Show more...industry in the face of rapid technological advancements, particularly the rise of AI. We will discuss the evolving demands of the market, the changing role of translators, and the opportunities for innovation and collaboration in defining the future of language services.

Mirko Plitt photo
Mirko Plitt
WHO Academy
Multilingualism Lead
10:10 – 10:40  
Coffee Break

10:40 – 11:00  
Translator Pals on a Boat and Also Not

My aim is to prove that freelancing doesn’t have to be lonely Show more...and that we’re all better off when we support one another. By embracing other translators as colleagues rather than competition, we can build up a valuable support network to help us surf those uncertain waves of freelancing. I’ll explain how and where to find trusty pals to pick you back up, cheer you on, and push you to thrive as a freelance translator and human being. There ’ll also be a few wholesome anecdotes and an explanation for the unusual title, as well as plenty of audience participation.

Dot Roberts photo
Dot Roberts
Freelance Audiovisual Translator
11:05 – 11:25  
Revolutionising Social Media Strategies: Harnessing the Power of TikTok

Harnessing TikTok’s power is essential for T&I professionals Show more...looking to boost their social media strategies and truly connect with audiences. By building a strong brand presence, fostering community engagement, and driving innovation in online learning, interpreters and translators can unlock new opportunities for growth and success in the ever-evolving digital landscape. This presentation offers a roadmap to navigate TikTok's potential and emerge as leaders in the digital age. You will also score a bonus segment packed with tips for maximising engagement across other social media platforms. Ready to step up your social media presence? Let’s dive in!

Marisol Santana photo
Marisol Santana
Freelance Translator
11:30 – 12:15  
How to Avoid Sounding Like Everyone Else: Why a Brand Voice is Your Secret Weapon

How can we stand out in a world of AI generated content? What Show more...do we do when it feels like we're shouting into a void? In this talk, Bex suggests that a solid brand voice is a key tool which can help you be more recognisable, consistent and authentic. She'll talk about using it as a tool for her clients and own business and give you practical exercises to help you begin to form your own.

Bex Elder photo
Bex Elder
Freelance Translator
12:15 – 12:45  
Coffee Break

12:45 – 13:30  
The Future of Simultaneous Interpreting

I am the owner and founder of Mastervoice, a global top 15 provider Show more...of simultaneous interpreting (ranked 8th by CSA). I have participated in the International Advisory Committee on Applied Language Technology (KUL). My career as conference interpreter spans 33 years since 1991. Mastervoice is accredited supplier for remote simultaneous interpreting for the UN and Eric Bauwelinck is a recognised expert for simultaneous interpreting by the European Commission with 2 academic publications on simultaneous interpreting. I am a member of the Professional Speakers Association, Global Speaker Association and Virtual Speakers Association International.

Eric Bauwelinck photo
Eric Bauwelinck
Mastervoice
CEO
13:30 – 15:00  
Lunch

15:00 – 16:30  
Don't Touch My AI: Turning a Threat into a Powerful Tool

This workshop will guide participants through creating a Custom Show more...GPT (using OpenAI's GPT builder) tailored to the diverse needs of professionals, from translators and project managers to anyone working in the language services industry. Whether it's optimising project management, automating resource searches, or improving quality control, a Custom GPT can be designed to streamline daily tasks. For those who think outside the box, this tool provides the opportunity to create innovative solutions that could attract attention from potential users, opening doors to new business opportunities. The session provides step-by-step guidance to develop personalised, productivity-enhancing tools.

Tony D'Angelo photo
Tony D'Angelo
CMT
Business Development Manager
16:30 – 18:00  
Strategic Financial Planning Workshop – How to Save, Invest, and Finance your Life and Retirement

This workshop offers a basic financial planning and investing Show more...education for every translator and company owner on how to save for retirement, finance your dreams and make your money work for you. You will learn: how to develop your individual investment strategy, how to adapt it to your life situation, how to implement your strategy step by step, improve it and stick with it for decades. We will talk about how to determine where you are financially, where you want to go and how to get there. Individual questions, appointments and meet-ups are welcome.

Wolf Steinhauer photo
Wolf Steinhauer
Verbal Athletes
Founder & Content Creator
20:00 – 00:00  
Networking Dinner

  • Track A – A new chapter begins…
  • Track B – …but don’t miss the fine print
09:30 – 10:15  
From Notes to Networks: The Internship Path for Translators

Internships for translation students are seen as a pivotal bridge Show more...between classroom learning and real-world application. With the rise of NMT and AI, both the market and internship dynamics have evolved, changing expectations and skill requirements. These internships help students build a strong skill set that aligns with the needs of the industry, including the ability to use new technologies. Academic institutions value these experiences not only for the technical growth they offer students, but also for the opportunities they create to form meaningful partnerships with translation companies that are adapting to this changing landscape.

Strengthening these links is essential in preparing the next generation of translators and language professionals.

Pilar Sánchez Gijón photo
Pilar Sánchez Gijón
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Professor
10:20 – 11:05  
The Perfect Prompt: Steering Relations and Skills of Language Professionals to New Heights

In the language services industry, where AI plays an increasing Show more...role in translation and communication, human touch is crucial for nurturing strong relationships with vendors and employees. While AI improves speed and accuracy, it lacks the cultural understanding, empathy, and personal nuance vital in this field. Building trust with vendors through transparent, collaborative partnerships enhances service quality. For employees, fostering a supportive environment that values their expertise and cultural insight ensures long-term loyalty and engagement. By blending AI's capabilities with authentic human interaction, language service providers can maintain meaningful, productive relationships that drive success and client satisfaction.

Petra Šešljaga Paradi photo
Petra Šešljaga Paradi
Ciklopea
Vendor Manager
Ivana Barisic Oharek photo
Ivana Barisic Oharek
Ciklopea
COO
11:05 – 11:35  
Coffee Break

11:35 – 12:20  
Talent Management Redefined: How LSPs Keep Talent, How Freelancers Shine

This talk will explore how language service companies can attract Show more...and retain top talent while freelancers position themselves to stand out in an increasingly automated world. We’ll cover strategies for employer branding, employee well-being, and career development, as well as how automation tools can empower both LSPs and freelancers, complementing rather than replacing human talent.

Federico Colombo photo
Federico Colombo
Terra Translations
HRBP
12:25 – 13:10  
Overcoming AI Panic: Chapter 1

The localisation industry is feeling tense as AI increasingly Show more...comes up in conversations, with many fearing it’s changing the industry in ways we don’t yet understand—or that it might eventually replace linguists. There’s a lot of panic, and so far, not many real solutions have been offered. Instead of waiting, we decided to dive in and explore how AI could fit into our daily workflows. It wasn’t easy—many lessons were learned, and we had to rethink how we work or risk shutting down. Step by step, we’ve embraced this change. AI’s potential is huge, and adapting is crucial to staying relevant.

Renata Špukienė photo
Renata Špukienė
Tilde
Head of Localisation
13:10 – 14:25  
Lunch

14:25 – 15:10  
The Evolution of Localisation Roles After the Generative Artificial Intelligence Revolution

The study analyses over 250 localisation job postings from May Show more...2023 to June 2024 to explore the evolving skills and competencies in the localisation industry, especially post-generative AI. It examines roles such as localisation manager and editor, focusing on the differences in responsibilities, skill sets, and seniority levels. The findings will help design relevant educational curricula, guide professionals in career development, and aid companies in refining hiring strategies. The study emphasises the growing importance of both soft and technical skills due to AI, providing valuable insights for educators, industry professionals, and employers.

Gokhan Dogru photo
Gokhan Dogru
Pompeu Fabra University
Lecturer | Localisation Specialist
15:10 – 15:40  
Coffee Break

15:40 – 16:40  
Panel Discussion

16:40 – 17:00  
Closing Remarks

09:30 – 10:15  
The Future of Language Services: Trends, Technologies, and Strategies for Success

Generative AI tools like Gemini and ChatGPT are transforming Show more...the language service industry, revolutionizing international and multilingual SEO. This presentation by AI and SEO expert Chris Raulf delves into how these tools enable efficient transcreation of keywords, ensuring cultural relevance and improved search rankings across diverse markets. Explore real-world examples of successful AI-driven localization campaigns, learn best practices for integrating AI into existing workflows, and gain insights into measuring the impact of these cutting-edge technologies on global SEO success. Discover the future of language services, where AI-powered transcreation bridges linguistic and cultural gaps for maximum impact.

Chris Raulf photo
Chris Raulf
Boulder SEO Marketing
Founder & President
10:20 – 11:05  
Can You Teach an Old Dog New Tricks? Adding a New Specialisation Mid-Career, Guerrilla-style

You reached a point in your career when you feel the need for a change. Show more... After translating for years in several industries, you want to explore opportunities in a new niche, but you don’t want to sign up for a formal programme. Good news, because it’s never been easier to research and learn a new trade. In my talk, I will cover my journey towards becoming specialised in sound and audio giving you tips on how to use YouTube, online learning platforms, books, free online resources, in short “guerrilla” tactics, to add a brand new specialisation to your translator’s belt.

Thomas Tolnai photo
Thomas Tolnai
Intersemantic
Freelance Translator
11:05 – 11:35  
Coffee Break

11:35 – 12:20  
Welcome to the AI Jungle

In today’s rapidly evolving industry, AI is both a tool and a challenge. Show more... At Trados, we view it as an exciting opportunity, but the key is knowing how to use it effectively. In this session, we will guide you through the complex AI landscape, offering insights on how to effectively integrate AI into your translation workflow. Learn the dos and don’ts of AI usage, practical tips for maximising its potential, and common myths that need debunking. An integral theme throughout will also be to reinforce the importance of the human in the loop.

Laura Saunders-Calvert photo
Laura Saunders-Calvert
RWS Group / Trados
Senior Customer Success Executive
12:25 – 13:10  
Ensuring Quality in Subtitling: Best Practices for Review and Language Quality Assurance (LQA) in Film Translation

As global viewership for films increases, the demand for high-quality Show more...subtitling has never been more crucial. Subtitles bridge linguistic gaps while preserving a film’s narrative, tone, and cultural context. Based on my experience as a subtitle coordinator for an Italian film festival, my presentation will explore the essential role of review and LQA processes in subtitling. Using real-world examples, I will discuss best practices, challenges, and solutions for achieving accurate and culturally sensitive translations. The session aims to provide translators, reviewers, and project managers with ideas to enhance subtitling workflows, ensuring that subtitles preserve the artistic intent and viewer experience.

Mirta Boschetti photo
Mirta Boschetti
Freelance Translator
13:10 – 14:25  
Lunch

14:25 – 15:10  
Survive & Thrive: Equipping the Independent Linguist for the Future

The role of the professional translator & interpreter has seen Show more...profound changes in the past several years. While there is more content than ever to be translated, the volume of work offered to many independent linguists is shrinking. This presentation will explore means to future-proofing your business, and the vital synergy between translation companies, AI providers, and the independent linguist, with an emphasis on adapting one's business to new realities.

Robert Sette photo
Robert Sette
Freelance Translator
15:10 – 15:40  
Coffee Break

15:40 – 16:40  
Panel Discussion

16:40 – 17:00  
Closing Remarks

SPEAKERS

Ceyda Aldemir-Down
Freelance Translator
Ceyda Aldemir-Down
Ivana Barisic Oharek
Ciklopea
COO
Ivana Barisic Oharek
Eric Bauwelinck
Mastervoice
CEO
Eric Bauwelinck
Mirta Boschetti
Freelance Translator
Mirta Boschetti
Federico Colombo
Terra Translations
HRBP
Federico Colombo
Tony D'Angelo
CMT
Business Development Manager
Tony D'Angelo
Gokhan Dogru
Pompeu Fabra University
Lecturer | Localisation Specialist
Gokhan Dogru
Bex Elder
Freelance Translator
Bex Elder
Damián Fernández
Spanish Language Specialist
Freelance
Damián Fernández
Marta Nieto Cayuela
Uber
Localisation Experience Program Manager
Marta Nieto Cayuela
Fabiana Noto
Freelance Translator
Fabiana Noto
Mirko Plitt
Keynote
WHO Academy
Multilingualism Lead
Mirko Plitt
Keynote
Chris Raulf
Boulder SEO Marketing
Founder & President
Chris Raulf
Dot Roberts
Freelance Audiovisual Translator
Dot Roberts
Pilar Sánchez Gijón
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Professor
Pilar Sánchez Gijón
Marisol Santana
Freelance Translator
Marisol Santana
Laura Saunders-Calvert
RWS Group / Trados
Customer Success Exec
Laura Saunders-Calvert
Petra Šešljaga Paradi
Ciklopea
Vendor Manager
Petra Šešljaga Paradi
Robert Sette
Freelance Translator
Robert Sette
Renata Špukienė
Tilde
Head of Localisation
Renata Špukienė
Wolf Steinhauer
Verbal Athletes
Founder & Content Creator
Wolf Steinhauer
Thomas Tolnai
Intersemantic
Freelance Translator
Thomas Tolnai
Kyle Wohlmut
The Language Collective
Freelance Translator
Kyle Wohlmut

Who should attend?

Anyone committed to developing their business relationships should attend, so if you are a translator, interpreter, post-editor, proofreader, vendor, quality or project manager, this event will be for you!

Benefits of the programme

For you

  • Learn new skills and best practices in a hands-on setting
  • Expand and enhance your business relationships
  • Share experiences and catch up with your peers
  • Get a new perspective on the future of the industry

For your business

  • Develop a stronger and more profitable network
  • Maximise productivity with new tools and approaches
  • Prepare for the challenges and opportunities on the horizon
  • Contribute towards a stronger industry

REGISTER

The Together Job Fair is the place for language professionals and language service companies to connect and bond over the languages and specialities that your company is looking for and the skills that a translator possesses. If your company would like to participate in the Together Job Fair you can reserve your spot via the event registration form. The cost for participating is €95 for ELIA member companies and €125 for non ELIA member companies. Translators have free access with registration for Together 2025.
For more information about the Job Fair and the participating companies, please click here.

Cancellation Policy

All requests for cancellation and refunds must be received in writing; this also applies to registration substitutions. Please contact us via email. To view the full cancellation policy and for more information about ELIA’s Event Terms & Conditions, please click here.

Venue

Novotel Barcelona City is located near the Torre Glories, symbol of the most avant-garde area of ​​Barcelona, ​​2 km from Bogatell beach and 4 km from the center of Barcelona and the pedestrian streets of the Gothic quarter. Easy access with the “Glòries” metro.

The hotel offers special rates for ELIA’s attendees by 17/1/2025. We recommend that you book your room as early as possible, to secure availability.

To book your room, please use the following booking link.

Bookings can be cancelled up until 2 months prior to arrival without charge. After that period the rate would be non-refundable.

€170 – Single Room / €190 – Double Room

All rates include VAT tax and breakfast. Please note that the touristic tax: €6.27, per night, per person is not included in the rates.

Copyright Novotel Barcelona City

Novotel Barcelona City
Avenida Diagonal 201
Tel: +34 933 26 24 99 h5560@accor.com Visit Website

Social Events

Don’t miss our networking events at Together 2025, where you can mix & mingle with fellow attendees, in inimitable ELIA style.

Copyright Catalonia Barcelona Plaza

Networking Dinner

Thursday, 20 February / 20:00-24:00
Simultáneo Restaurant

The cost for the buffet dinner is €56 per person and you can sign up during registration.

COMMITTEE

Indrė Lelevičienė
Baltijos vertimai
Event Chair
Indrė Lelevičienė
Diego Cresceri
Creative Words
Programme Committee
Diego Cresceri
Carlos la Orden Tovar
InsideLoc
Programme Committee
Carlos la Orden Tovar
Aleksandrina Karabasheva
Arte.Doc
Programme Committee
Aleksandrina Karabasheva

SPONSORS

Interested in sponsoring Together 2025?
Click here or contact us!

PARTNERS

Looking to Become a Member of ELIA?
For additional information contact us by email