As described at LocLunch.net, LocLunch is "a vibrant and inclusive global community that brings together professionals and enthusiasts from the fields of localization (L10n), internationalization (I18n), globalization (G11n), global brand management, marketing, and translation software development." More broadly, it's a casual networking event for anyone with a professional interest in localization or adjacent fields.
The first LocLunch was organized by LocLunch founder Jan Hinrichs in January 2019.
The first LocLunch Seattle event happened just a few months after the first LocLunch (see above). The following list provides a short history of who has been involved in coordinating LocLunch Seattle events in the years since then.
2019 - Danielle Marcos
2021 - Jorge Russo dos Santos
2023 - Andres Cubero, Sako Eaton
2024 - Sako Eaton, Kusumawardhani, Jennifer Truluck
For the most part, all you need to do is show up with an appetite and an interest in localization-related topics! However, as a practical matter, it's also important to RSVP for events so we know how many people are coming and other details related to coordinating and promoting events.
First of all, we're glad to hear that you are interested in helping out with our events! To become a LocLunch Ambassador, please fill out the Ambassador Candidate Form at LocLunch HQ. Also, please let a current Ambassador know of your interest.
Collectively, the Ambassadors are responsible for making sure LocLunch events happen on a regular schedule. We strive to arrange an event each month, often on the second Thursday of the month, but the timing may differ. Coordinating events usually involves deciding on a venue, making reservations with the venue, announcing the event, answering questions leading up to the event, welcoming participants, and facilitating conversations. Separately, the Ambassadors also meet periodically (perhaps as frequently as once a quarter) to discuss ideas for future events. The Ambassadors also manage this site and related ones, such as the LinkedIn Group.
Planning an event may take around an hour, hosting an event generally requires at least two. Quarterly planning discussions and follow-up actions may take around three hours. If a single individual takes on all of these tasks alone, the time required would probably be around 50 hours, spread out over the course of a year. Fortunately, not every Ambassador has to be involved in all of these things for every event, so the work can be easily distributed.
Although it is possible to get involved even for just a single event, we find that collaboration is smoothest if Ambassadors commit to serving for one calendar year. At the end of each year we check to see whether each Ambassador for the following year as well.