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AI has the potential to solve the worldâs most pressing challenges, but only if it reflects the diversity of the society it seeks to serve. As a mirror to humanity, this technology can either amplify existing biases or help to dismantle them. The difference lies in how it is shaped and who is shaping it.
This is the challenge driving Lenovoâs Women & AI initiative. Marine Rabeyrin, head of the group, believes that accelerating action on inclusive AI development isnât just a technological challenge, itâs a societal one.
âGender bias affects half the population, yet itâs never been central to the conversation about the potential concerns of AI,â she says. âAs the technology advances, we have a powerful opportunity; not only to address the risks but to âunbiasâ the systems that shape our world, from datasets to decision-making models. By acting now, we can ensure AI drives progress, not prejudice.â
As we mark International Womenâs Day under the theme Accelerate Action, the urgency is illustrated by one simple number. Women represent just 22% of the global AI workforce â a stark reminder of why change canât wait.
Amplifying the Fight Against Bias in AI
From news reports about recruitment algorithms favouring men to credit assessments that penalise women, biased AI systems pose a real challenge to inclusion if left unchecked. The Algorithmic Justice League (AJL), led by Dr Joy Buolamwini, is combating these issues, with initiatives such as the , which encourages companies to make a public commitment to limit the abuse of facial recognition technology. This is after AJLâs research revealed a 34.7% error rate for facial recognition on dark-skinned women compared to 0.8% for light-skinned men.
In a similar vein, Dr Timnit Gebru, through the Distributed AI Research (DAIR) Institute, has shown how large language models marginalise underrepresented communities and is calling for greater transparency in AI development. Marine Rabeyrin, who spearheaded the implementation of Cercle InterLâs Women & AI pledge, reflects on the companyâs progress towards more inclusive AI practices.
Since signing the pledge in 2021, Lenovo has made significant strides. Initially focusing on governance, a robust framework was built with the establishment of a Lenovo Responsible AI Committee and appointment of a Chief Security and AI Officer, Doug Fisher. âToday, with support from the Lenovo Product Diversity Office, every AI solution undergoes assessment for ethical and gender bias compliance,â adds Marine.
Raising Awareness and Investing in the Future
Building a future where AI serves everyone requires both systemic change and grassroots efforts. Beyond strengthening governance and accountability, expanding the pipeline of female talent is crucial for ensuring technology reflects the needs of all communities. Without a range of perspectives in its development, AI risks perpetuating societal bias. By increasing female participation, we can ensure these systems better serve all demographics, promoting a more sustainable future.
Partnering with Impact AI, Cercle InterL introduced a free Gender Bias in AI Awareness Kit for universities in 2024, offering a three-hour course, sponsored in English by Lenovo, to raise awareness of the issue.
Marine stresses the importance of visibility and mentorship. âAI careers are not just for data scientists,â she says. âShowcasing the diverse roles available in the sector helps women find their place in STEM.â
The Lenovo Foundation further supports programmes like STEMETTES in the UK and Becomtech in France, helping to increase womenâs participation in STEM careers. By showcasing opportunities in the field and connecting young women with role models, these initiatives empower the next generation and ultimately promote a more diverse workforce.
Accelerating Action Together
Marine remains optimistic about AIâs potential, emphasising that rapid advancements come with opportunities to shape its impact. âAI innovation is accelerating, but so is our understanding of its impact,â she says. âThe more we uncover its potential, the better we can shape, refine and direct it, ensuring it remains a force for goodâ. On this International Womenâs Day, Accelerate Action is more than a theme â itâs a call to ensure that as AI shapes our future, it does so inclusively and ethically. By amplifying diverse voices and holding technology to the highest standards, we can create AI that truly works for all.