Business Translation

AI, Localization & Global Connections with Charles Campbell

Exploring AI's role in localization and the power of community with Charles Campbell.
Fabio Correa Gomes
2 minutes, 57 seconds
Table of Contents

Localization and technology are evolving faster than ever, with professionals navigating a rapidly shifting landscape. In the latest Merging Minds episode, Charles Campbell, founder of TBO and a localization expert with over 25 years in the field, joins Javi to discuss his journey and the future of the localization industry. Charles shares unique insights on adapting to change, especially with the integration of AI and the value of community in the industry.

Charles Campbell’s Journey: From New Zealand to Argentina

Charles’s path to localization began far from where he ended up. A New Zealander by origin, he ultimately moved to Argentina, immersing himself in Latin American culture and becoming a central figure in the localization world.

  • Early Career: Charles started with translation and teaching roles, but quickly recognized the potential for growth in localization.
  • Founding TBO: In 2004, Charles launched TBO, which grew from a small operation to an international company with a presence across Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
  • "I’ve been in Argentina for 31 years... My connections to Argentina are very deep." – Charles Campbell

    Adapting to Change: AI’s Role in Localization

    A central theme of the conversation was AI's growing presence in localization and how professionals are responding.

  • Embracing AI: Charles sees AI as an asset, one that brings "a positive range of opportunities." He notes that at TBO, everyone actively engages with AI, learning how to integrate it into their work to enhance efficiency and creativity.
  • Facing Fear: For Charles, adaptation is key to success. "People are kind of split into two camps... the people who are afraid of the future and the people who are embracing it."
  • "I don’t feel that we’re afraid of [AI]... I feel a very positive range of opportunities." – Charles Campbell

    The Power of Community in Localization

    Community and connection are core elements of Charles’s approach to business, a perspective shaped by years in the industry and a global network of colleagues and clients.

  • Building a Team: Charles takes pride in the community at TBO, which he calls “a family of passionate and dedicated people.”
  • Networking Across Borders: In his involvement with industry events, such as Hunos, a conference in Latin America, Charles emphasizes the importance of gathering and learning from others. For him, networking has not only been enriching but essential to the growth of TBO.
  • "The people I work with are...my friends, and they’re the most amazing people and committed." – Charles Campbell

    Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Localization

    Drawing on his experience, Charles offers valuable advice for anyone looking to start a business in the localization field:

  • Start with Capital: "The reason why businesses are not successful is because they run out of money."
  • Do What You Enjoy: "Do something that you enjoy and like, and if you don’t enjoy it, why would you be doing it?"
  • Balance Specialization and General Skills: Although specialization is important, Charles stresses the value of being a generalist to adapt to the various roles required in business.
  • Looking to the Future

    Charles remains optimistic about the future of localization, especially as AI continues to reshape the industry. His vision is for TBO to "bridge the gap between peoples and cultures" and remain a place where people create value beyond their individual roles.

    "I am convinced that... we will be continuing to do this, and maybe my daughter will get a job at the company one day." – Charles Campbell

    This conversation with Charles Campbell provides invaluable insights for those in localization and related industries, especially around adapting to AI, building community, and creating a sustainable business model. His reflections remind us that embracing change and fostering connections are essential in today’s evolving global landscape.

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    Fabio Correa Gomes
    Writer and Marketing professional, passionate about learning and generate value to people online
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