Leveraging AI for social impact: Fash Fasoro on the World Summit AI

In October 2023, the Scottish AI Alliance invited two community organisations that we work closely with to join us at the World Summit AI in Amsterdam. In our second of two guest blogs, Fash Fasoro recounts his experience at the summit. Fash is the Chief Executive of DataKirk, an Edinburgh-based social enterprise that supports the empowerment of disadvantaged groups through data literacy and analytics training.

In October 2023, the bustling city of Amsterdam became the epicentre of global conversations on artificial intelligence, responsible AI practices, and the burgeoning realm of the Metaverse. As a privileged attendee, I found myself immersed in the dynamic and illuminating atmosphere of the World Summit AI (WSAI) 2023, where thought leaders and innovators from around the world converged to explore the current landscape of AI and chart its future trajectory.

The summit, pulsating with energy, showcased a diverse array of discussions that spanned from climate change and space exploration to ethics, education, and finance. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, offering profound insights into the transformative power of AI across various domains. The air was thick with anticipation as attendees eagerly absorbed the collective wisdom of the AI community and contemplated the profound impact that AI is set to make on our world.

Empowering Nonprofits

Amidst the plethora of sessions that captured my attention, one particular interactive workshop stood out – "Empowering Nonprofits: Data-driven Strategies for the Dutch Food Bank." Hosted by experts in the field, this workshop delved into the crucial intersection of data, AI, and philanthropy. As a representative of DataKirk and Scottish AI, this session resonated deeply with me, underscoring the importance of upskilling in data and AI for promoting Tech for Good.

The workshop focused on three key pillars:

• Optimising Food Distribution: In the age of data, the workshop emphasised harnessing the power of analytics to streamline food distribution processes. The goal was to ensure that every individual in need has timely access to food resources. By leveraging AI algorithms, the Dutch Food Bank aimed to enhance the efficiency of its distribution network, minimising waste and maximising impact.

• Predicting Demand Fluctuations: Anticipating the needs of the community is paramount for any charitable organisation. The workshop explored how data-driven predictive analytics could empower the Dutch Food Bank to forecast demand fluctuations accurately. Armed with this foresight, the organisation can proactively prepare to meet the evolving needs of the community, ensuring a more responsive and adaptive approach to food distribution.

• Identifying Donors and Partners: Data-driven strategies were also employed to identify potential donors and forge strategic partnerships. By leveraging technology, the Dutch Food Bank aimed to expand its network of supporters, fostering collaboration with individuals and organisations committed to making a positive impact on food insecurity.

As a representative of DataKirk & Scottish AI at the summit, the workshop underscored the pivotal role that upskilling in data and AI plays in promoting Tech for Good. It illuminated the transformative potential of these technologies when applied to philanthropic endeavours, showcasing how advanced analytics can amplify the impact of nonprofit initiatives.

AI Addressing Social and Scientific Challenges

The World Summit AI 2023 was not just a platform for discussing the present state of AI but also a compass pointing towards the future. It highlighted the responsibility that comes with wielding the power of AI and the imperative of leveraging technology to address societal challenges.

In the broader context of the summit, climate change emerged as a focal point. AI, with its analytical prowess, was positioned as a key player in developing sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change. The discussions delved into the role of AI in monitoring environmental changes, optimising resource usage, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources.

Space exploration, another riveting topic, showcased the integration of AI in advancing our understanding of the cosmos. AI algorithms were presented as invaluable tools for processing vast amounts of astronomical data, aiding in the discovery of new celestial phenomena and potentially habitable exoplanets.

Ethical considerations also took centre stage, with speakers emphasising the importance of responsible AI development. Discussions revolved around establishing ethical frameworks to guide AI applications, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in the deployment of these technologies.

The educational sector witnessed a transformative narrative, with AI emerging as a catalyst for personalised learning experiences. The summit explored how AI could tailor educational content to individual needs, fostering a more inclusive and adaptive approach to learning.

In the financial realm, AI's potential to revolutionise banking and investment strategies was a prevalent theme. From fraud detection to algorithmic trading, the summit highlighted the diverse applications of AI in optimising financial processes and enhancing decision-making in the rapidly evolving world of finance.

Social Impact of AI

Returning to the "Empowering Nonprofits" workshop, the session's significance extended beyond the immediate context of the Dutch Food Bank. It exemplified a broader trend of leveraging AI for social impact, demonstrating how technology can be harnessed to address societal challenges and promote positive change.

As I reflect on my experience at WSAI 2023, I am filled with optimism about the positive changes that the AI community can bring to the world, especially when guided by principles of responsibility, inclusivity, and Tech for Good. The summit was not just a meeting of minds; it was a rallying call for a collective commitment to shaping a future where AI serves as a force for good, transforming industries, communities, and lives.

The interactive workshop on empowering nonprofits was a microcosm of this larger narrative, illustrating the profound impact that AI can have in creating a more equitable, efficient, and compassionate world. The journey through the World Summit AI 2023 was more than a conference; it was an exploration of possibilities, a glimpse into the limitless potential of AI, and a call to action for a future where technology works hand in hand with humanity to build a better tomorrow.