Topics for presentations

There are four main topics for papers and presentations, related to the overall theme of “Malta: A Linguistic and Cultural Crossroads”, honouring the host country and the wider region. Additionally, there is a practical track focused on language learning techniques.

I. Languages, Dialects, and Cultures of Malta

II. Indigenous, Endangered, and Vulnerable Languages

III. Semitic Languages and their Linguistic Continua

IV. Language Learning Techniques: Practical Information for Language Learners

V: Colonial Imprints: Navigating the Harms and Harmonies of Language

VI. Other Language-related Topics

Read more about the topics here.

Format

The talks follow the Ted-Talk model, where each speaker gets a 20-minute slot on stage. After your 20-minute slot, anyone who has questions for you will be able to speak to you off stage, 1-2-1. This allows for a smooth running of the talks, as well as more meaningful discussions between the audience and speakers.

There are no restrictions on the language of the presentation; the event strongly encourages presentations in languages other than English. Make sure to indicate your chosen language on the application form.

Need some help and/or inspiration for putting together your talk? Check out my How I prepared to give a talk at this year’s Polyglot Gathering and what I learnt from it post.

The scholarship

The scholarship is open to applicants from all around the world, and is designed specifically for anyone who would like to speak at the event, but would not ordinarily be able to do so due to financial constraints. Find the application form (which details the scholarship stipulations) here. Make sure to propose a talk idea too (applicants can propose more than one talk idea); find the proposal application form here.

The scholarship amount is not defined, but covers the costs of flights, accommodation, event ticket and visa costs (if applicable).

Please note that the scholarship is only open to people who would like to speak at the event.

The venue

This year’s venue has a fabulous stage, in a ballroom where Queen Elizabeth II used to dance!

What else is happening?

Creator Days

On 5-6 November, there are two Creator Days taking place:

5th November: Creator Event

This day is for established creators (with at least 40K followers). This event will provide a space to meet with other creators and discuss important topics. It’s a rare chance to get face-to-face time with others in the language creation space and help each other figure out strategies. In addition to this, you will have time to collaborate with other creators to create content and meet with sponsors and partners at the conference to explore potential collaborations.

Sign up here.

6th November: Content Creator Connect

Are you interested in creating language learning content on social media or growing your educational project? Looking for ways to overcome obstacles in the process? Would you like to get help and insights from established content creators and edupreneurs? Then this day of presentations on content creation is the place for you!

Sign up here.

At last year’s conference, some of the big names who attended included some of Liga Romanica, including Elena from Linguriosa, Leo from Portuguese with Leo and Davide from Podcast Italiano. Language Simp also made an appearance, as well as Andy from AndyGM en Berlín and many, many more!

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Polyglot Conference Global

The Polyglot Conference Global is happening on 7-10 October 2024. This is an online event available to people all over the world.

Participants can expect the following activities throughout the 4 days between 7-10 October:

• Some speaker presentations will be pre-recorded and available for you to view whenever you like during the conference.
• There will be some LIVE presentations for you to join too. These will be recorded and later made available to watch whenever you like.
• Q&A sessions will be added as speakers confirm their time slots and these will appear on the dynamic programme in the Live Environment.
• 50+ recorded italki lessons in a LOT of languages!
• Offers, deals, discounts and fun with our other partners and sponsors TBC!
• Language exchanges hosted by community members, including a number already agreed to be hosted by Olga Koeva
• A multilingual concert by Olga Koeva
• More things will be added to the programme as the days go on. Remember that this is a dynamic programme and YOU can also get involved!
• Previously unreleased videos from Polyglot Conferences and The Language Event!

Apply to speak here.

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Maltese classes

Maltese classes are being explored as an option, but haven’t yet been confirmed; keep an eye on the event social media channels for updates.

Where can I get more information?

Check out the FAQs on the website for more details.

Want to hear it from the man himself? Richard Simcott recently released the below video:

IMPORTANT:

Places are limited, so make sure to join the participant waiting list to secure your spot, or use this as an opportunity to apply as a speaker!

Got further questions? I’m part of this year’s organising team, so feel free to comment with further questions, or write directly to Richard on his channels!