On June 3rd and 4th, 400 translators and interpreters from around the world gathered for the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) conference. The event was held in the beautiful Scottish city of Edinburgh, although a quarter of attendees were welcomed online.

The ITI Conference is the largest UK-based conference for translation and interpreting and the only one to include a stream dedicated to interpreting. With over 40 speakers, the conference featured a varied lineup of academics, industry authorities, and first-time speakers — offering a diverse range of insights and experiences.

While the spotlight often shone on AI and its potential impact on the future of the profession, the conference also covered essential topics like business skills, diversification, and wellbeing. The atmosphere was undeniably positive and reflected the resilience and adaptability of the profession.

A highlight of the event was the keynote speech on the second day by ITI CEO Sara Robertson, who reflected on her first year in the post and the future of the sector. Acknowledging that the path ahead isn’t necessarily easy or even clear, she emphasized the innate adaptability of translators and interpreters and advocated a four-point strategy for continued success: embracing lifelong learning, enhancing subject specialisms, cultivating sales and marketing skills, and actively bolstering professional communities.

The conference was by no means all work and no play; there were also plenty of opportunities for relaxation and connection. Attendees in Edinburgh enjoyed fringe events, including a distillery tour and scenic walks along the Water of Leith river. Social highlights included a welcome reception and a gala dinner, while online participants engaged in virtual networking sessions to forge new connections and rekindle old friendships.

As one delegate put it, “As freelancers, we often feel isolated and disconnected. Conferences like this one are truly wonderful places where we can build connections, uplift each other, and find a sense of reinforced positivity.”

The ITI Conference proved once again that, despite the challenges facing the language industry, the community’s resilience and togetherness continue to shine brightly.