If you haven’t been to the ASLIA National Conference (ANC) yet, I’ve got one word for you: wow! Adelaide 2024 was my first ANC experience, and let me tell you, it was a blast. Picture this: the Hilton Hotel, smack in the middle of the CBD, fancy enough to make me feel like royalty for a weekend. Everywhere I turned, there were fellow professionals—both Deaf and hearing—buzzing with excitement. Over 300 participants came together to share, learn, and laugh in a packed schedule that was just too good to miss.
A Hilton Stay Fit for a Conference
First off, the hotel. Hilton Adelaide, right in the city center, gave me all the luxury feels. Everything was so close by that I could pop out for a coffee or some sightseeing in between sessions, though, let’s be honest, the conference itself was the main attraction. The program? Phenomenal. It was one of those situations where you’re genuinely torn between sessions. Do I attend this workshop or that one? Should I miss out on a panel for a different panel? Decisions, decisions!
The Speed Debate: To Swear or Not to Swear?
But the real highlight? I was lucky enough to participate in one of the Speed Debates. Picture this: the topic was whether interpreters should swear or not. Now, I’m a man of strong opinions (as many of you know), and let’s just say I was all in for swearing. Why? Because sometimes, an F-bomb just gets the message across, right? The intensity, the raw emotion—sometimes language needs to reflect that.
My team debated for swearing, and we didn’t hold back. Honestly, the debate got fiery (pun intended), and the audience loved it. Turns out, they agreed with us! My team came out on top, proudly waving the flag for interpreters everywhere to swear their hearts out, as long as it’s in context, of course!
The People, The Program, The Parties
The conference was so much more than just debates though. The networking was on another level. I met people from all over, hearing about their experiences, challenges, and ideas for the future of interpreting. It was inspiring to see the diversity of perspectives. Whether it was a deep dive into technical workshops or something more light-hearted like the entertainment, there was truly something for everyone.
Speaking of entertainment, the evenings were just as exciting as the day sessions. Whether it was social events or impromptu gatherings, there was always something happening. I don’t know how ASLIA managed it, but there wasn’t a single dull moment. It was a whirlwind of ideas, laughter, and, let’s face it, a few too many late-night chats over drinks.
A Slight Hiccup: My Unwanted Souvenir
Of course, no story is without its twists. After all the fun, learning, and debating, I hopped on my flight back home, tired but filled with amazing memories. And then… bam! COVID hit me like a ton of bricks. Yep, my souvenir from ANC 2024 wasn’t a t-shirt or a mug—it was a full-blown case of COVID. Not quite the kind of takeaway I was hoping for, but hey, life happens, right? I spent the rest of the week in isolation, feeling more sorry for myself than I probably should have.
But even while I was curled up under blankets and knocking back more tea than a Scottish grandmother, I couldn’t stop thinking about what an incredible time I had. It didn’t stop me from reflecting on all the good moments, the laughter, and the fantastic people I met.
Looking Forward to ANC 2026: Bring It On!
Now that I’m (thankfully) on the other side of that COVID ordeal, my excitement for the next ANC is already building. ANC 2026 is going to be in Victoria, and I’m already counting down the days. If it’s anything like 2024—and I have a feeling it’ll be even better—I’ll be front and center, ready to take on the debates, the workshops, and, yes, maybe even some more swearing.
So, if you’re thinking about attending ANC 2026, let me save you the trouble of deciding. Do it! You’ll leave with new knowledge, great connections, and memories that will last… well, at least until the next conference!
And hopefully, no COVID this time. Bring it on, Victoria!