Johan Botha

Johan Botha Director, Folio Online South Africa | LinkedIn GALA has given me, here in Africa, not only global connections and collaboration opportunities, but the knowledge and chance to influence the direction of localisation.

In your view, what is the primary function and purpose of GALA? How can the association have a positive impact on its members? 

The industry has never had to run this fast. AI disruption, tighter margins, ever-changing demands, hype on one side and fear on the other are changing how we work. GALA needs to expand offerings through its courses, webinars and SIGs to deliver tangible value every month. The annual conference should be the highlight of what we have built together, not just a once-off for the lucky few.

For this to work, GALA’s membership has to look like the industry it serves. Buyers are under pressure to do more with less while keeping quality up. They need confidential forums, reliable benchmarking, and safe spaces to test new technologies. When they sit at the table, everyone benefits.

LSPs remain the backbone of the industry, but backbones need support. Clearer routes to buyers, practical growth strategies, and exchanges that focus on solving real business problems, not just swapping business cards during speed networking.

The 2025 bylaw changes expanded access for professionals who were previously excluded. Engineers, designers, compliance managers and content strategists can now see GALA as a place to contribute their skills and learn about localisation. This mix of disciplines and perspectives reflects the people who will build the skills the industry needs.

Regional expansion is a huge opportunity. University links, local roadshows, and even mini conferences can connect members where they actually work. But these will only succeed if sustained over time.

With long-term focus and the stability of longer board terms, GALA can plan and deliver initiatives that truly matter.

How have you engaged with GALA as a member?

I have served on the Conference Program, Nominations, Membership and Rising Star committees, participating in the Barometer Task Force and Focus Groups. I have also spoken multiple times at the annual conference and delivered webinars and articles. I remain actively involved in shaping GALA’s programmes and supporting its strategic direction.

Why would you make a good GALA board member? What will you bring to the table?

I’m a translator, manager, and LSP owner, and serve as the co-founder and board member of the Association of Language Companies in Africa. I lead strategy and growth for Folio, one of Africa’s longest-standing LSPs. My experience stretches across the full breadth of GALA’s programmes and initiatives, giving me insight into its strengths and opportunities. I bring governance skills, a global network, and an African voice that doesn’t like to sit quietly in the corner.

Which segment(s) of GALA's membership do you represent? What perspective will you bring?

I represent the LSP sector while staying connected with enterprise buyers and technology providers. Working with young professionals keeps me close to emerging talent. I bridge suppliers, clients, and individuals and want GALA’s strategy driven by voices that refuse polite nodding, resist mediocrity, and push the industry forward.

What is one thing that every language industry professional needs to hear right now?

Growth, and for many even survival, rests on collaboration across sectors and regions. Inaction will always cost more than adapting, adjusting, and embracing necessary change.