T
he European Language Industry Association (ELIA)’s Together 2025 event, held on February 20–21, 2025, at Novotel Barcelona City, brought together over 200 professionals, both language service providers (LSPs) and freelancers, from the language and localization industries. This year’s edition sparked discussions on key topics impacting and shaping the future of our industry.
The keynote speaker, Mirko Plitt, former WHO Multilingualism Lead, kicked off the event on Thursday morning, addressing the importance of human-driven value in the industry. While automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are rapidly evolving, the increasing presence of technology highlights the importance of the human element, particularly in building trust and showcasing the value of quality translation. Plitt’s insights set the tone for the event, giving food for thought on adapting to technology and AI while maintaining high standards.
Advertisement
The afternoon saw two parallel workshops take place — a new Together feature! In one workshop, Tony D’Angelo of CMT explored how AI tools can be used to streamline workflows and enhance project management without replacing the human touch. Attendees were brought through a step-by-step process on building their own custom AI assistants. In the other workshop, Wolf Steinhauer, personal finance strategy trainer, led a financial planning workshop, offering guidance on developing a personal investment and saving strategy.
The panel discussion “Disruption, Evolution, and Continuity: Understanding Change,” facilitated by Carlos la Orden Tovar, featured Henry Dotterer of ProZ.com; Luz M. Sanchis of Master Translations; and Anikó Pető-Mordovski, freelance Hungarian translator, who each shared their insights and views on adapting to AI tools and the evolving expectations of clients. The session emphasized the importance of staying relevant to clients while embracing innovation and technology.
But ELIA Together 2025 didn’t stop there. New connections and partnerships formed, along with the rekindling of old friendships over the two days in Barcelona, are what made the event truly special.
With over 20 inspiring sessions, two interactive workshops, a panel discussion, fun networking activities, and a networking dinner (with plenty of singing and dancing!), ELIA Together 2025 was testament to the power of collaboration and togetherness, no matter how quickly the industry evolves.
Advertisement
To everyone who joined us at ELIA Together 2025 — speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees — your participation made this event a memorable one. A special thank-you to the program committee members — Diego Cresceri, Indrė Lelevičienė, Carlos la Orden Tovar, and Aleksandrina Karabasheva — for their dedication in curating this exceptional event. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our local partner Kobalt Languages for a lovely welcome to the beautiful city of Barcelona!
With ELIA Together 2025 now wrapped up, we’re already looking forward to the next event — this time in Limassol! Join us on May 15–16, 2025, for Focus on Executives 2025.
Advertisement
Related Articles
On 22–23 September, language industry professionals from across Europe and beyond gathered for two days of open dialogue, fresh insight, and meaningful connection. This edition…
→ Continue ReadingThis week’s stories explore the tension between human nuance and machine precision, the celebration of linguistic identity, and the evolving role of AI in localization…
→ Continue ReadingELIA has announced the results of its 2025 Board of Directors election. The new board will officially take office on September 21.
→ Continue Reading
’s Together 2025 event focused on the future of translation, including discussions on AI and automation.){kind=link}