Localization Life in Vancouver BC with Evgen Lipinskyi and Oriol Moalem Duran

In this episode of MemoQ Talks, guests Evgen Lipinskyi and Oriol Moalem Duran, both localization professionals, shared their experiences moving to Vancouver, Canada. Evgen, originally from Ukraine, previously worked as a translator and team lead in Russia, while Oriol, from Spain, has worked in Israel and Canada. They recounted their journeys to Vancouver—Evgen moving two years ago for new opportunities and Oriol relocating with his family for a better quality of life. Both noted their impressions of the city, with Evgen likening it to scenes from an "American movie" and Oriol enjoying its natural beauty and culinary offerings.

The discussion explored the localization community in Vancouver, highlighting the challenge of forming deep connections as an adult in a new city. However, both guests praised the Vancouver Localization User Group (VLUG) for fostering a welcoming environment. They appreciated how VLUG’s events help professionals connect on personal and professional levels, making the community feel inclusive and collaborative.

Another significant topic was the impact of AI and automation on the localization industry. Oriol acknowledged that AI can enhance efficiency but emphasized the continuing need for human translators for nuanced, high-quality content. Evgen supported this by sharing an anecdote about flawed machine translations of popular fiction. They concluded by encouraging listeners to engage with their local localization communities, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing and building connections that extend beyond professional discussions.