How the Next Generation Sees Work in the AI Age — A Conversation with Our CCLBL Interns

Two of our CCLBL interns recently took the spotlight in a special podcast episode titled “How The Next Generation Sees Work in the AI Age.”
Recorded in Lisbon, the conversation brought together Jo Smets, President of the CCLBL, and our interns Emma Pauwels and Jenne Smout, for an honest, refreshing and surprisingly mature dialogue about the future of work.

In a world where artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, expectations and career paths, hearing directly from young professionals entering the workplace is not just inspiring, it’s essential. Emma and Jenne shared how they see trust, autonomy, flexibility and purpose as non‑negotiables and how AI is both a powerful tool and a responsibility. Their perspective reflects a generation that is pragmatic, curious and deeply aware of the world they are stepping into.

The episode also highlights themes that matter to our community:
- how AI accelerates execution while elevating the importance of human connection
- why soft skills and adaptability are becoming the real competitive advantage
- how online communities create space for quieter voices
- and why “everybody is a senior in something,” as Jo beautifully puts it.

For us at CCLBL, this conversation is more than a podcast. It’s a reminder that the next generation is not waiting to be invited, they are ready to contribute, challenge and co‑create the future of work alongside us.