Empowering the next wave of language experts: The RWS-Brode Scholarship initiative at the University of Manchester

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the demand for skilled linguists, translators, and content experts has never been more critical. 

Through scholarships, training programs, and global outreach initiatives, the RWS Foundation commits to not only supporting the linguistic talents of tomorrow but also to advancing the technologies and methodologies that will shape the future of global communication. 

In 2019 the “RWS-Brode Scholarship Programme” was launched – named after our Chairman, Andrew Brode – in collaboration with the University of Manchester, to encourage students to complete a degree in modern languages and to provide employment and training opportunities. Since its launch, we have supported more than 50 students through the scholarship programme and connected with many more through other events and initiatives. 

We are pleased to continue this collaboration into 2024 and beyond, supporting a further 21 scholars who began their studies in September. 

In addition to the scholarship programme, and as part of RWS Campus, we work closely with the University of Manchester to support students in their education and path into the localization industry. Activities include careers fairs, webinars, job opportunities and panel events to talk about RWS and roles in localization. 

We have recently begun our second mentoring programme, where 16 scholarship students have been matched with 16 RWS team members for individual mentoring sessions to cover topics such as employability, networking and localization industry insights. This proved to be very successful last year and the mentors look forward to sharing their experiences with the students and supporting with any questions or advice to support them in their future endeavours. 

“The mentoring programme was very useful -  Talking to someone with real life experience of the job I am striving for has made it seem more achievable and helped me realize ways I can start working towards it. I can now start preparing myself for my future while still at university thanks to the help of my mentor, something I'm not sure I would have realized otherwise.” 

Quote from a participant of mentoring programme in 2023 

We also provide the university with 120 Trados licenses to support Masters level students in learning about translation technology. 

At the end of February, we had the opportunity to meet in person with 8 scholarship students, with some great discussions on career opportunities, the localization industry and the impact of AI. This was followed by an awards ceremony where Andrew Brode was awarded the Medal of Honour from the University, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to education through his philanthropic activities at the University and more widely. 

Investing in future language specialists is not just an investment in individuals; it's an investment in a future where language and cultural barriers no longer hinder progress, innovation, or global understanding. It is a privilege to work with students and the next generation of talent, with the support of Andrew, the RWS Foundation and RWS Campus. 

These initiatives are crucial in paving the way for a more inclusive, connected, and understood world, aligning perfectly with our purpose of 'unlocking global understanding.' As we stand at the crossroads of a rapidly evolving global landscape, the work of the RWS Foundation is more important than ever, ensuring that language continues to be a bridge, not a barrier, to global understanding and cooperation.