Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day IMLD Celebration
Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day Celebration – FAQs
Welcome to the FAQs section for the Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day Celebration. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about the event, including registration, participation, speaking opportunities, accessibility, and more.
What is the Linguists Collective Conference and IMLD Celebration?
The Linguists Collective Conference is an annual global event held on 21st February,marking both International Mother Language Day(IMLD) and the founding anniversary of the Linguists Collective (LC). This conference brings together linguists, language professionals, language service users, regulators, and language enthusiasts to engage in discussions, training, and collaboration on language–related topics.
While the event promotes and aligns with IMLD, it is not exclusively dedicated to celebrating IMLD. The 21st of February also marks the official launch of LC as a business, making the day doubly significant. The conference serves as a rallying point for language professionals, bringing together interpreters, translators, researchers, policymakers, and advocates to explore critical issues in language, education, and cultural preservation.
Beyond being a conference, this event is a platform for professional development, offering session for CPD, training workshops, and panel discussions that address industry challenges, technological advancements (such as AI in language services), and language preservation efforts. Additionally, LC actively supports UNESCO’s annual IMLD theme and advocates for endangered languages through its charity missions, further reinforcing the conference’s role in cultural preservation and linguistic advocacy.
For more details on the history and purpose of the event, visit: About LC Conference.
Why is International Mother Language Day significant?
International Mother Language Day (IMLD) was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 and later recognised by the United Nations, with the aim of promoting linguistic diversity, multilingual education, and the protection of endangered languages.Celebrated annually on 21st February, this day underscores the crucial role of language in shaping identity, fostering inclusion, and preserving cultural heritage.
The significance of IMLD is particularly urgent given the alarming rate of language extinction. Studies indicate that a language disappears every two weeks, and according to UNESCO, nearly 40% of the world’s population lacks access to education in their mother tongue. Furthermore, 41% of languages worldwide are currently endangered, threatening the cultural knowledge, traditions, and histories embedded within them.
Beyond its cultural and linguistic importance, IMLD also commemorates those who have fought to preserve their right to language. The date 21st February was chosen to honour the language martyrs of Bangladesh, who sacrificed their lives in 1952 to defend their right to speak Bengali. Today, the observance continues to serve as a call to action for governments, educators, and communities to promote multilingualism and protect
linguistic diversity.
Each year, UNESCO sets a dedicated theme for IMLD, aligning with global efforts to enhance linguistic rights, education policies, and digital inclusivity. The Linguists Collective Conference actively supports and promotes UNESCO’s theme annually, reinforcing the commitment to language preservation and advocacy.
For more details, visit: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/mother-language
Why does the Linguists Collective host this conference?
The Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day (IMLD) Celebration is not just an event, it is a global rally, an annual gathering, and a professional development opportunity for linguists, language industry professionals, and stakeholders.
This conference was established to mark 21st February, a date of dual significance:
1. It commemorates the founding of the Linguists Collective (LC), a milestone that transformed LC from a vision into a reality, now serving linguists, language service users, and industry stakeholders worldwide.
2. It celebrates International Mother Language Day (IMLD), reinforcing LC’s commitment to linguistic diversity, multilingual education, and the protection of endangered languages, in alignment with UNESCO’s annual theme.
A Platform for Dialogue, Training, and Celebration
The conference provides an essential platform for open communication, collaboration, and knowledge exchange between LC, language professionals, industry regulators, and stakeholders. Through a mix of talks, training sessions, and panel discussions, this event serves as a space where linguists can develop theirskills, share their expertise, and engage in critical conversations about the future of language services.
Key Objectives of the Conference:
Yearly Gathering for Linguists: A dedicated space for interpreters, translators, cultural mediators, and language enthusiasts to connect, collaborate and celebrate their profession. Training for CPD : Attendees can request proof of attendance to contribute towards their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), supporting
lifelong learning and professional growth. See here for T&Cs:
https://conference.linguistscollective.info/proof-of-attendance-tc Voice for Language Advocacy – The conference highlights discussions on language preservation, multilingual education, and the urgent need to protect endangered languages, reinforcing LC’s charity mission. See LC charity policy here:
https://forms.linguistscollective.info/lc-charity-policy Dialogue Between Industry and Stakeholders : Regulators, businesses, policymakers, and language service users participate in open discussions on industry challenges, policy updates, and innovations in the field. Celebrate Language and Culture : A moment to honour the richness of global linguistic heritage, highlighting the role of language in identity, community, and intercultural communication.
The Linguists Collective Conference is a yearly tradition, a celebration, and a platform for collective growth – bringing together linguists, language professionals, regulators, and language users to engage in meaningful dialogue, lifelong learning, and global networking.
For more details, visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info
What are the main themes and topics of the conference?
Each year, the Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day
(IMLD) Celebration is structured around two core themes:
- UNESCO’s Official Theme for IMLD: Features global discussions on linguistic diversity, multilingual education, and language rights.
- Preserving and Revitalising Endangered Languages: Highlights efforts to safeguard at–risk languages and promote linguistic heritage.
Below is a selection of topics covered in past conferences, along with potential themes for future events:
- Language solutions to explore how language and translation strategies drive success across industries.
- The role of language in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
- UNESCO’s mission to promote linguistic diversity, cultural preservation, and education through language initiatives.
- Celebrating rare and endangered languages with a focus on initiatives to preserve their cultural and historical significance.
- The impact of AI and technology on language services with opportunities they may present along with challenges.
- The essential role of interpreters and translators in advocacy, public service and cross–cultural communication.
- Practical guidances for ensuring effective communication when working with interpreters such as how to improve accuracy and performance.
- Multilingual education and how it strengthens learning outcomes and preserves intergenerational cultural heritage.
- Oral traditions, storytelling and the transmission of culture.
- Language as a human right: legal, political and ethical dimensions.
- Ethical challenges and codes of conduct in interpreting and translation.
- Public speaking and message delivery for interpreters.
- Exploring how unconscious bias, language policy and inclusive practices impact equity and access in multilingual spaces.
- How young people are revitalising minority languages.
- The use of social media to keep languages alive.
- The critical role of interpreters in humanitarian and refugee settings and thepolitical dynamics that shape language access.
- Addressing the emotional impact of high–stress assignments and strategies tosupport interpreter wellbeing.
- Highlighting the growing scope of linguists’ work across legal, educational and cultural domains.
A Platform for Emerging Discussions
The conference remains dynamic and open to new ideas, welcoming proposals from guest speakers and industry professionals on emerging issues or innovative areas of interest. Those wishing to suggest new topics or areas of discussion are encouraged to submit proposals for consideration at future conferences.
For more details or to propose a topic, visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info.
How is this conference different from others?
The Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day (IMLD)Celebration is a global rallying point for linguists, language professionals, and advocates. It stands out as a unique combination of celebration, professional development, advocacy, and community engagement, making it an unparalleled platform for dialogue, collaboration, and progress in the language industry.
Key Features That Make This Conference Unique:
- Open Access wiith Optional Paid Training: The speaker-led sessions of the conference are free to attend, ensuring accessibility for linguists, language service users, and advocates worldwide. While there is an option to donate, there is no obligation, and costs are fully covered by LC Agency.Please note that the professional training session requires a separate paid ticket.
- Global Accessibility: The conference is currently held online to ensure accessibility for participants across the globe. We are committed to inclusivity and international access, with features such as live captions and translation support to ensure a meaningful experience for all.While future editions may explore hybrid or in–person formats, virtual access will always be available to ensure continued global participation.
- A Platform for Discussion and Debate – The conference fosters open discussions, panel debates, and knowledge exchange, allowing linguists and stakeholders to explore the latest industry challenges and innovations.
- A Focus on Language Advocacy and Preservation – Unlike many other professional conferences, this event actively supports endangered language preservation, multilingual education, and linguistic rights, aligning with UNESCO’s mission and global language diversity efforts.
- A Space for Professional Growth – It combines training, CPD opportunities, and expert-led sessions, helping linguists, interpreters, and translators stay at the forefront of industry developments. Attendees can request proof of attendance for CPD purposes.
- Community and Networking – More than just a learning event, the conference serves as a meeting place for the linguistic community, providing a space for idea-sharing, collaboration, and recognition of achievements within the industry.
- A Day of Celebration and Recognition – Beyond professional discussions, the conference marks both IMLD and the founding anniversary of the Linguists Collective, celebrating the importance of language and those who work to protect and advance it.
This conference is not just about attending sessions – it is about engaging in meaningful conversations, contributing to linguistic advocacy, and being part of a global movement to elevate the role of language in society.
How can I register for the conference?
To register for the Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day (IMLD) Celebration, please visit https://imld2026.eventbrite.co.uk to secure your spot.
How much is the ticket or registration fee?
The conference consists of two speaker–led sessions and one training session. The speaker–led sessions offer a valuable opportunity to engage in discussions and network with linguists, interpreters, translators, and language enthusiasts worldwide. The training session allows you to enhance your professional skills, gain practical knowledge and advance in your role as a linguist.
The speaker led sessions of the conference are free to attend, with early registration highly encouraged. While there is no obligation to donate, optional donations are welcome to support our work.
Tickets for the training sessions are priced at £60 with discounts available for registered linguists. To access a discounted rate, please email conference@linguistscollective.info with proof of registration and we will provide you with a discount code to use at checkout.
Registration is required to gain access to the event schedule, speaker sessions, and participation in discussions. Secure your spot by registering via
https://conference.linguistscollective.info or through our Eventbrite page at https://imld2026.eventbrite.co.uk.
Who can attend the event?
This event is not limited to language professionals – we encourage participation from members of the public, policymakers, politicians, regulators, NGOs, business leaders, language service users, and anyone interested in multilingualism, linguistic diversity, and the evolving role of language in society.
Whether you are a professional, student, researcher, or simply an enthusiast, this conference provides a unique opportunity to engage in discussions, gain insights, and be part of a global conversation on language, culture, and technology.
For more details and to register, visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info
What role does CPD play in the conference?
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a key element of the Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day (IMLD) Celebration. The event provides a rich learning environment where attendees can engage in discussions, gain insights from industry experts, and enhance their professional skills to stay relevant in the ever-evolving language industry.
Unlike structured training programmes, the LC Conference is designed as an open and mastery-based learning platform, offering diverse sessions led by both emerging and experienced professionals. This format allows participants to benefit from a broad range of perspectives and expertise, making the conference an invaluable resource for professional growth.
While LC does not provide accredited training or structured courses, attendees who require proof of attendance for CPD purposes can request a signed certificate issued by LC. These certificates serve as evidence of participation but are not linked to formal accreditation.
For details on proof of attendance requests, visit:
https://conference.linguistscollective.info/archive-2024/.
How does this conference help endangered languages?
The Linguists Collective Conference and International Mother Language Day (IMLD) Celebration actively supports efforts to raise awareness, revitalise, and protect endangered languages. By providing a global platform for linguists, researchers, activists, and community leaders, the conference brings attention to the challenges of language endangerment while sharing practical strategies for revitalisation, documentation, and preservation.
Speakers and Sessions Dedicated to Endangered Languages
Over the years, the conference has featured renowned experts and grassroots activists working on language preservation worldwide. Past speakers have included:
- Kristen Tcherneshoff (Wikitongues) – Sharing innovative approaches to documenting and preserving languages at risk of extinction.
- Jowdy Davey (Cornish Language Activist, UK) – Discussing efforts to revive Cornish, an endangered / extinct language of the UK.
- Gregory Anderson (Living Tongues Institute for Endangered Languages) – Exploring the scientific and community-driven aspects of language revitalisation.
- Zubair Torwali (Pakistan) – Highlighting the struggles and successes in preserving Torwali, a language spoken in northern Pakistan.
- Fakhruddin Akhunzada (Pakistan) – provided insights into the root causes and propose preventive measures based on his extensive work, including
projects targeting under-documented languages in the Chitral Valley.
- Dylan Lewis Rowlands (UK/Wales) – Speaking on the revitalisation and continued promotion of the Welsh language.
- Paula Malvin (Ireland) – Advocating for the continued survival and promotion of the Irish language.
These discussions provide critical insights, resources, and inspiration for linguists, educators, policymakers, and community members engaged in language preservation efforts.
How the Conference Supports Endangered Languages
✔ Sharing Strategies for Language Revitalisation – Speakers present practical approaches to revitalisation, community engagement, and policy advocacy.
✔ Highlighting the Role of Multilingual Education – Exploring how mother tongue-based education supports linguistic and cultural survival.
✔ Encouraging Community Action – Inspiring individuals, institutions and language activists to take action in their own communities.
LC’s Commitment to Endangered Languages and Charity Initiatives
To learn more about LC’s charity efforts and how you can contribute, visit:
https://forms.linguistscollective.info/lc–charity–policy/
Join Us in Celebrating and Protecting Linguistic Diversity
For more details, please visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info/
To register, please visit: https://imld2026.eventbrite.co.uk
Can I speak at the LC Conference? If so, how?
Yes! The Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day Celebration welcomes guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, including linguists, translators, interpreters, researchers, policymakers, educators, industry professionals, and advocates. Whether you are an experienced expert or an emerging voice, we encourage you to share your insights and contribute to meaningful discussions on language, culture, technology, and advocacy.
How to Apply as a Speaker
To be considered as a guest speaker, please complete the Speaker Profile Form: https://conference.linguistscollective.info/speakers–profile–form/
We welcome proposals on relevant topics, and presentations can range from 5 to 25 minutes. If no speaking slots are available for the current event, we will consider you for a future conference.
Additional Information for Speakers:
- You can choose from suggested themes or propose a new topic relevant to the conference’s focus.
- Standard speaking slots range from 5 to 25 minutes, but if you require additional time, please mention this in your submission or contact the LC Conference Organising Team.
- This event is a valuable opportunity to share your expertise with a worldwide audience of language professionals, service users, and policymakers.
Will the speaker be paid?
The speaker-led sessions of the conference are free, ensuring accessibility for all attendees. As part of this commitment, we do not have a predefined budget for speakers and typically do not provide remuneration or offer honorarium.
However, if a speaker wishes to charge LC or donate their fee to a charity, they must submit a pre-agreed invoice to LC Accounts after the event. For donations, the selected charity must be registered in the UK and must not engage in any unethical activities. The suggested fee or charity rate is £80 per hour pro rata, inclusive of VAT.
Speakers can also raise funds for their chosen charity by presenting at the conference for a minimum of 5 minutes, allowing them to contribute to a cause they support while engaging with a global audience.
✔ Sessions may be recorded and shared on social media for educational and outreach purposes.
✔ LC may retain your data to invite you to future events, ensuring ongoing opportunities for engagement.
For more details or to request a speaking slot, visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info
Can I invite my friends and colleagues?
Register here: https://imld2026.eventbrite.co.uk/
Can I ask questions to speakers?
Absolutely! If you have a question for our speakers, you can submit it in advance or during the session using the Question Corner:
Submit your question here: https://conference.linguistscollective.info/question–corner/
During the live event, the host may read your question aloud or invite you to ask it directly to the speaker.
How do I find the joining details?
The 2026 conference will be held online.
For the 21st February 2026 event, the Zoom link and password will be sent to all registered attendees by 20th February 2026.
Please check your inbox, including your junk/spam folder. If you do not receive the link, contact us immediately.
I need interpreting, translation, or other language services from LC.
Visit the LC Services page to request assistance:
https://linguistscollective.info
I am a freelance linguist - can I register with LC Agency?
Yes! If you are a freelance linguist, we welcome you to join the Linguists Collective team.
Register here: https://forms.linguistscollective.info/join-our_team
Alternatively, you may email LC HR for more information.
What are the technical requirements for attending the online event?
The 2026 conference will be hosted on Zoom, allowing attendees to join via Zoom’s web
platform (https://zoom.us) or by downloading the Zoom app on their device. To participate
fully, we recommend:
✔ A stable internet connection to avoid disruptions.
✔ A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a microphone and speakers.
✔ Using headphones for better sound quality.
✔ Familiarising yourself with Zoom functions (e.g., mute/unmute, chat, raising a hand).
Zoom tutorial for new users:
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193-Joining-a-Zoom-meeting
Will sessions be recorded, and can I watch them later?
Sessions may be recorded and edited for online sharing. However, LC will decide after the event which parts will be made available.
If you are interested in reviewing specific sessions, we recommend attending live where possible.
Stay connected via https://conference.linguistscollective.info for updates on session availability.
Is there a dress code for the event?
There is no formal dress code required. Feel free to join from home, even in your pyjamas!
Since this is a full–day event (8:00 AM – 10:00 PM GMT), attendees are welcome to join and leave as needed
However, we encourage everyone to:
✔ Take breaks for comfort and well-being.
✔ Stay hydrated and move around during session intervals.
✔ Check the programme for scheduled breaks between sessions.
Your comfort and online well-being matter!
What happens if I need to cancel my speaking slot?
We strongly recommend that speakers do not cancel their slots once confirmed. However, if you absolutely must, please email the LC Conference Organising Team immediately so that we can adjust the schedule accordingly.
For urgent cancellations, contact us via: https://conference.linguistscollective.info or call us on
Linguists Collective UK: +44 (0)333 240 0139
LC Ireland and Europe: +353 (0)96 96404
Out of EU & after-hours (WhatsApp, WeChat, Signal) : +44 (0)7307377430
Can I propose a panel discussion instead of a solo talk?
While individual presentations are preferred, you may propose a panel discussion. However, panel discussions will be at the discretion of the event host and chair. We recommend speakers:
Deliver their speech first, then open the floor for discussion. Ensure panellists are confirmed in advance if proposing a panel session.
For inquiries about panel discussions, please submit your proposal through our
speaker application form: https://conference.linguistscollective.info/speakers-profile-form/
Is there an opportunity to network with other attendees?
For the 2026 event, which is online, networking opportunities may be limited unless you are a speaker yourself. While the conference prioritises discussions, presentations, and knowledge-sharing, future hybrid or in-person events may introduce networking spaces.
Can I promote my own work, book, or organisation during the event?
There are limitations on self–promotion. You cannot promote services that LC Agency provides, as this would create a conflict of interest. Check here for LC’s services: https://linguistscollective.info/services
However, you may promote other relevant items (such as books, research, advocacy projects) with prior permission from the LC Organising Team.
Will interpreting services be available during the conference?
✔ The primary language of the conference will be English.
✔ Zoom provides auto-generated captions.
✔ For speakers with special requirements, we can consider BSL (British Sign Language) interpretation.
Unfortunately, we do not have the budget to provide additional live interpreting services or support multiple sign languages. However, we are confident that the live captioning feature will enhance accessibility for a wider audience.
For specific accessibility requests, please reach out before the event.
Will I receive a confirmation email after registering?
Yes! If you register through Eventbrite, you will receive a confirmation email with event details. If you do not receive it, please contact us immediately via:
https://conference.linguistscollective.info
How can I stay updated on future LC events?
- Visit our official conference website: https://conference.linguistscollective.info
- Follow our Eventbrite page for upcoming events: https://lc.eventbrite.ie
- Follow our social media pages.
Can I get a refund if the event moves to a paid format in the future?
The speaker–led sessions are currently free to attend. Optional donations are welcomed to support the event. We do have options to request a refund for donations and LC is generally not strict about this as LC agency covers majority of the event costs.
For those purchasing a ticket to the training session, refunds are available up until 20th February 2026.
If any future changes are made to the event’s pricing or structure, we will inform all attendees in due course.
Final Notes
This is a free event open to all.
The event may be recorded and shared online.
LC may retain attendee data for future invitations and event updates.
For any further queries, visit: https://conference.linguistscollective.info