Dear translators and customers,

On January 18, 2006, a group of Arabic translators living in Cairo met for a roundtable discussion (Powwow) to get acquainted with one another, share expertise on translation tools and resources, and discuss ways to improve quality, process, and self promotion techniques. Allow me to thank all who attended:

Yasser El Helw
Samah Soliman
Yusuf Abu Zaid
Randa Samir El Nomeir
Sanaa Omrany (who graciously hosted the meeting at her office)

The meeting was the first of its kind and – based on attendees' feedback – a success. I personally stand to benefit from the insight offered on various translation market niches, not to mention the new contacts I will be able to call upon for professional advice or for collaboration on future, large-volume projects.

On the other hand, we were surprised to see that a handful of the translators who had RSVP’d and – in some cases – promised to take photos and write reports, failed to attend the meeting or even notify the group they would not be attending. We are all busy, but please, for the next event let’s not make commitments we cannot keep. A networking event is intended as an opportunity to demonstrate professionalism, not the contrary.

Sincerely,

Michael McCain
Freelance Translator
organizer of the Powwow