Human(e) Language and the importance of creating Ethical & Sustainable Businesses

This episode of The Language Worker features a conversation with Anja Jones. We discuss her background, her views on the language industry, and her new project, Human(e) Language.We talked about Anja's journey in the industry, starting with the launch of AJT in Cornwall in 2010 and building it into one of the UK's most respected language service providers.She shared how her start as a freelance translator shaped her vision for AJT. She wanted to create pathways for graduates and newcomers by offering them meaningful work and mentorship in an industry that can be difficult to break into.As the industry evolved, so did AJT. Anja discussed the impact of AI and large language models, emphasizing the ongoing need for human creativity and cultural sensitivity. She also emphasized the ethical dilemmas posed by AI, from copyright issues to the environmental footprint, and called for greater regulation and responsibility within the sector.Following the closure of AJT, Anja reflected on what truly matters in language services. This led to her latest venture, Human(e) Language. Although details are still emerging, Anja described Human(e) Language as a project grounded in her core belief that language work must be human-centered, ethical, and sustainable.Tune in to hear Anja’s insights on leadership, ethical entrepreneurship, and the future of the language industry. Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about growth, but also about making a meaningful, positive impact.