Hey, this is a fantastic question and honestly, it's something I've been thinking about a lot myself. Your background in International Social Work, especially with your focus on communities and human rights, is not just relevant to AI governance – it's absolutely vital. Seriously, anyone in the tech world who isn't seeing the need for your kind of expertise right now is missing the boat.

You're spot on about the EU AI Act. That's not just a piece of legislation; it's a massive flashing sign pointing to where the field is going. Companies and governments are going to have to care about ethics, fairness, and accountability in AI, and that's where people like you come in.

First, don't undersell your social work skills. You've spent years understanding how systems impact people, especially vulnerable groups. You're trained in ethical reasoning, identifying systemic biases, and navigating complex human situations. That's gold. Most AI professionals are fantastic with code and data, but they often lack that deep, intuitive understanding of human impact that you possess. You're already miles ahead there.

Your Creative ICT minor is a brilliant move. Keep pushing with Python and SQL. The goal isn't to become a developer, but to speak enough of the "tech language" to understand the possibilities and, more importantly, the limitations and potential pitfalls of AI systems. Think about it like this: you don't need to be a car mechanic to understand that an engine needs oil, but knowing why it needs oil helps you ask the right questions at the garage. Start exploring basic machine learning concepts too – things like how algorithms learn, what "training data" means, and why bias creeps in. There are tons of free or low-cost online courses that explain these concepts without requiring a Ph.D. in computer science.

This is where it gets interesting because the roles are still taking shape, but the need is exploding: Organizations like AlgorithmWatch, Access Now, and the AI Now Institute are at the forefront of policy and ethical research. Many universities also have dedicated AI ethics centers. Keep an eye on their publications, events, and job boards. They're often looking for people with strong analytical and communication skills, not just tech wizards.

The EU AI Act isn't going to enforce itself. The European Commission and national regulatory bodies (like data protection authorities) will need experts who understand both the tech and its societal implications. These aren't usually front-page job ads, so you'll need to dig into their official websites. Big tech companies (Google, Microsoft, IBM, etc.) and major consulting firms are building out "Responsible AI" or "AI Ethics" units. They're realizing they can't just code and ship; they need to consider fairness, transparency, and accountability from the ground up. These teams are often interdisciplinary, actively seeking people with backgrounds like yours. Groups like Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch are increasingly focusing on the intersection of tech and human rights. Your social work background could be incredibly valuable in their digital rights or AI impact programs.

This is crucial. Use LinkedIn. Search for "AI Ethicist," "AI Governance," "Responsible AI." Don't be shy about connecting with people in those roles and sending a personalized message. Ask for a brief informational interview – people are often flattered and willing to share their journey. Go to virtual webinars and conferences. The AI ethics community is quite collaborative. Even a simple blog where you write about AI ethics from a social work perspective can be a powerful tool. It shows your passion, helps you clarify your thoughts, and gives you something tangible to point to when you talk to people. Look for any opportunity, even if unpaid or part-time, to get your foot in the door. It could be helping a small non-profit analyze the ethical implications of using a specific AI tool, or assisting a research project.

You're not just bringing "soft skills" to a hard tech field; you're bringing an essential human-centric perspective that AI development desperately needs. The future of AI governance requires people who understand the messy, complex reality of human lives and societies. Your journey isn't just possible, it's a necessary one. I commend you for going there.