As I reflect on my journey through languages, I’m struck by the profound diversity of opportunities they offer. Beyond mere communication tools, languages open doors to a vast array of career paths, each as dynamic and unique as the languages themselves. From teaching and mentoring, writing and blogging to advocating and translating, my own career has been a melting pot of experiences, shaped by a wealth of linguistic and cultural discoveries. From penning books that introduce new cultures, to leading teams of linguists, my journey has been as multi-faceted as the languages I’ve fallen in love with. And so could yours.
Teaching a range of languages – from Albanian and Romanian to Basque, Dutch and Portuguese – has been a central pillar of my professional journey. I’ve had the privilege of not only imparting language skills but also nurturing a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures and traditions. Whether introducing students to the lyrical beauty of Albanian poetry or demystifying the complex grammatical structures of Basque, each lesson becomes a vibrant space for exploration, discovery and, dare I say, fun!
Fostering that sense of cultural empathy and understanding really is a key aspect of language teaching. In today’s globalised world, the ability to communicate across cultural boundaries is more important than ever. Exposing students to a diverse range of cultural materials, such as literature, music and film, can help them develop a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world around them.
Mentoring emerging language professionals has been an equally rewarding aspect of my career. Guiding them through the intricacies of applied language and career development, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of mentoring in shaping their future paths. As they navigate the complexities of the language industry and languages in general, I am inspired by their growth and resilience and am pleased to have played at least a small part in encouraging those talents and passions.
Beyond the practical aspects of career development, mentoring also provides an opportunity to build meaningful relationships and networks within the language industry. By connecting mentees with other professionals and resources, I can help them expand their horizons and access new opportunities for development and advancement.
Advocating for language education has been a deeply personal mission for me. In a country that often undervalues linguistic diversity, I try to be a staunch advocate for the importance of multilingualism. Whether lobbying policymakers for greater and more targeted focus on languages or speaking at conferences about the benefits of having another language, I am driven by a belief in the inherent value of language learning as a gateway to global citizenship and understanding.
One of the key challenges in advocating for language education is combating (mis-) perceptions such as, languages are intrinsically difficult or languages are secondary, standalone or optional subjects in the curriculum. By highlighting the cognitive, cultural, economic, professional and human benefits of language learning, we can help policymakers and stakeholders understand the importance of investing in language education from an early age.
Another important aspect of language advocacy is promoting access to language education for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. This includes advocating for resources and support for English language learners, as well as promoting the study of less commonly taught languages that are often marginalised in mainstream education.
Translating and interpreting have allowed me to bridge cultural and linguistic divides, facilitating communication and understanding in many contexts. Whether translating legal documents or providing simultaneous interpreting for public services, I have experienced first-hand the power of language in breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity. In a world characterised by increasing interconnectedness, translators and interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring that communication flows seamlessly across linguistic boundaries (and their human, nuanced approach can never be fully replaced by AI…).
Writing and blogging have provided me with a platform to amplify voices and advocate for the importance of language learning. Through articles and blog posts, I’ve sought to celebrate the richness, diversity and versatility of languages, hopefully inspiring others to embark on their own language journeys. By sharing stories of cultural exchange and linguistic discovery, I aim to instil greater appreciation for the beauty and varieties of all the world’s languages – spoken, written, signed, classical or planned.
As I continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of language pathways and careers, I’m still excited by the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Whether I’m exploring new languages, venturing into uncharted territories or using my skills to make a difference in the world, I’m committed to embracing diversity and opportunity at every turn. For me, language is not just a means of communication; it is a lens through which we can better understand and connect with the world around us. And as I journey on, I invite others to join me in embracing the panoply of opportunities that languages have to offer.
Perhaps one of the key aspects of navigating language careers today and in the future is keeping abreast of industry trends and developments. As technology continues to reshape the way we communicate and interact with languages, not least through embracing the positive solutions provided by artificial intelligence, language professionals must be willing to engage with new tools and technologies to remain relevant and competitive in their fields.
Language careers are as diverse and dynamic as languages themselves. By embracing the smörgåsbord of opportunities they offer, language professionals can make a meaningful impact and contribute to a more interconnected and inclusive world. So, whether you’re passionate about teaching, mentoring, advocacy, translation and interpreting, writing and blogging or language technology, there’s a place for you in the vibrant and ever-evolving world of languages.
Albaro Languages 