The value of bilingualism in the workplace
Lafan is a bilingual company in every sense of the word: it's not just about offering services in both Welsh and English; it's about creating a vibrant, inclusive workplace where both languages coexist.
Beyond its well-documented personal and professional advantages, bilingualism opens doors to fascinating connections that might otherwise remain unexplored. I've had the pleasure of meeting extraordinary individuals linked by the beautiful Welsh language; Lafan is the first workplace I have been in where we operate like this on a day-to-day basis, and it’s been quite an experience to be in this environment.
But it's not just about networking; it's about forging genuine bonds. Our brand resonates with our local community on a personal level, tapping into the deep-rooted relationship between Ynys Môn / Anglesey and the Welsh language. This connection goes beyond business; it's about shared values and a sense of belonging.
At Lafan, our use of Welsh has given us a unique edge. Our clients appreciate not only our ability to operate seamlessly in Welsh but also the quality of work we deliver in this language. It's a testament to our commitment to excellence, regardless of the language we work in.
My own relationship with Welsh is a bit unconventional. I didn't learn it in school, as I didn’t through the Welsh system. Instead, I immersed myself in a Welsh-speaking environment when I moved here in 2015. It’s surprising what almost total immersion can do!
On a personal note, using Welsh at work has enriched my daily interactions with colleagues, clients, and partners. There's a certain magic in offering to work in Welsh with fellow speakers—it feels like an instant, deeper connection. I've been fortunate; while my Welsh isn't perfect, the people I work with have shown incredible patience and understanding.
One of the projects Lafan is working on at the moment is the Arfor project, which seeks to come up with solutions to strengthen local economies in Welsh-speaking communities. If you're curious to learn more or have a project of your own in mind, don't hesitate to reach out. Drop us a line at post@lafan.cymru or give us a call at 01248 665624. Let's embark on a journey of collaboration and positive change together!