From Translator to AIEC Powerhouse: Josephine Williams on Travel, Events and the Unexpected

You know those people who make the impossible look effortless? That’s Josephine Williams.In this episode, Rob sits down with the former AIEC Conference Manager and international education legend to unpack the stories behind the scenes—and behind the passport stamps. From coordinating a last-minute plenary for 300 delegates to climbing into a taxi bound for Damascus (yes, that Damascus), Josephine’s career has been anything but ordinary.What starts with a streaker in Fitzroy becomes a wild ride across languages, countries, and careers—all fuelled by adrenaline, curiosity, and a love of making things happen.In this episode:🚨 That time 300 people mobbed an AIEC session and Josephine had to find a solution—fast✈️ How a failed translation career led to a global event management pathBackpacking pre-Google Maps: navigating Laos with film cameras and walkie talkiesTeaching in Korea, fleeing Dubai, and accidentally discovering BeirutWhy feedback matters—and how innovation really happens in large-scale conferencesThe bittersweet joy of stepping back after being the heart of an event for a decadeWe also get reflective: What photos are missing from your life? What makes you feel most alive? And how do you find your safe space when the world is chaotic?This one’s a story-lover’s dream, and a testament to what can happen when you say yes—to jobs, countries, conversations, and even a bit of chaos.We are incredibly proud to be the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without ⁠⁠The Koala News⁠⁠, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by ⁠⁠Choosing Your Uni⁠⁠, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets. For guest suggestions and feedback, email [email protected]⁠Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.