Session
Organizer 1: Civil Society, African Group
Organizer 2: Civil Society, African Group
Organizer 3: Civil Society, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
Organizer 4: Technical Community, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
Organizer 5: Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Organizer 6: Private Sector, Asia-Pacific Group
Organizer 7: Technical Community, Eastern European Group
Organizer 8: Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Organizer 9: Government, African Group
Organizer 2: Civil Society, African Group
Organizer 3: Civil Society, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
Organizer 4: Technical Community, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
Organizer 5: Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Organizer 6: Private Sector, Asia-Pacific Group
Organizer 7: Technical Community, Eastern European Group
Organizer 8: Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Organizer 9: Government, African Group
Speaker 1: June Parris, Civil Society, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
Speaker 2: Harisa Shahid, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Speaker 3: Natalie Tercova, Technical Community, Eastern European Group
Speaker 4: Pari Esfandiari, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 5: Houda CHIHI, Government, African Group
Speaker 2: Harisa Shahid, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Speaker 3: Natalie Tercova, Technical Community, Eastern European Group
Speaker 4: Pari Esfandiari, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 5: Houda CHIHI, Government, African Group
Format
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 90
Format description: Round table will perhaps provide a more intimate atmosphere that encourages discussion, given the very personal nature of the discussion, that of women. It also encourages newcomers and other gender related attendees to have a voice in the discussion. Room layout should be inviting and have a warm atmosphere, and this applies to this discussion. There is a lot to discuss, therefore 90 mins is the necessary amount of time that is needed to get the message across. Additionally, the 90 minutes is chosen so the session can be more interactive and to also give room for those who are joining remotely to make adequate input.
Duration (minutes): 90
Format description: Round table will perhaps provide a more intimate atmosphere that encourages discussion, given the very personal nature of the discussion, that of women. It also encourages newcomers and other gender related attendees to have a voice in the discussion. Room layout should be inviting and have a warm atmosphere, and this applies to this discussion. There is a lot to discuss, therefore 90 mins is the necessary amount of time that is needed to get the message across. Additionally, the 90 minutes is chosen so the session can be more interactive and to also give room for those who are joining remotely to make adequate input.
Policy Question(s)
1. How can AI-driven innovations help preserve cultural heritage and traditions in underserved regions, particularly for women-led communities?
2. What policies are needed to ensure ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI applications that empower women as key agents in cultural resilience?
3. How can global and local stakeholders collaborate to bridge the digital divide and provide equitable access to AI tools for cultural preservation and economic opportunities?
What will participants gain from attending this session? The session will provide diverse perspectives on the ethical and practical challenges of AI in cultural resilience. Attendees will learn how AI can bridge digital divides, empower women as cultural leaders, and create inclusive opportunities for economic growth. The session will be about women empowerment in leadership roles.
A special focus can be share about research on AI impact on SIDS Small Islands and Developed States or native people cultures and traditions, and how people can figure out and bring local and sustainable solutions.
By the end, participants will leave with actionable knowledge on applying AI for cultural sustainability, practical strategies for engaging underserved communities, and ideas for collaboration. The discussion will offer new perspectives on integrating AI into heritage preservation and women’s empowerment and highlight the importance of upskilling and reskilling in AI/ML and finally, inspiring attendees to leverage technology for a more inclusive and resilient digital.
SDGs
Description:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to preserve and revitalise cultural heritage in underserved regions, particularly by empowering women as key agents of change. AI-driven tools such as language preservation models, digital storytelling, and heritage mapping can document and promote endangered traditions, indigenous knowledge, and local arts. For women, AI can offer innovative platforms for economic empowerment through craft digitisation, online marketplaces, and skill-building in cultural entrepreneurship. AI-powered education and translation tools can also bridge linguistic and knowledge gaps, ensuring that traditional practices are passed on to future generations. By integrating AI into cultural resilience efforts, we can create inclusive and sustainable opportunities that honour traditions while fostering innovation and economic independence.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to preserve and revitalise cultural heritage in underserved regions, particularly by empowering women as key agents of change. AI-driven tools such as language preservation models, digital storytelling, and heritage mapping can document and promote endangered traditions, indigenous knowledge, and local arts. For women, AI can offer innovative platforms for economic empowerment through craft digitisation, online marketplaces, and skill-building in cultural entrepreneurship. AI-powered education and translation tools can also bridge linguistic and knowledge gaps, ensuring that traditional practices are passed on to future generations. By integrating AI into cultural resilience efforts, we can create inclusive and sustainable opportunities that honour traditions while fostering innovation and economic independence.
Expected Outcomes
This session aims to raise awareness of how AI can support cultural resilience and women’s empowerment in underserved regions together with the necessity of upskilling in AI/ML. Participants will gain insights into best practices, ethical considerations, and policy frameworks needed to ensure AI-driven innovation benefits diverse communities.
Expected outcomes include:
Actionable Recommendations: Policy and strategy suggestions for integrating AI into cultural preservation and economic empowerment initiatives.
Collaboration Opportunities: Networking among stakeholders, fostering partnerships for future projects supporting AI-driven cultural resilience.
Follow-up Initiatives: Potential for workshops, policy briefs, or collaborative research to further explore AI’s role in safeguarding cultural heritage and empowering women.
Hybrid Format: To ensure seamless interaction between onsite and online participants, a dedicated moderator will manage both in-person and virtual engagement. An online facilitator will monitor the chat, collect questions, and voice them in real-time. Remote participants will have scheduled speaking slots and be encouraged to actively contribute.
To enhance inclusivity, live polling and Q&A tools like Slido will be used for instant feedback. Social media platforms will be leveraged for broader engagement, allowing discussions to continue beyond the session.
We will use Zoom for virtual participation, with features such as live transcription and multilingual support to enhance accessibility. Dedicated chat and discussion boards will foster ongoing dialogue. This structured hybrid-friendly approach will ensure a dynamic and interactive experience for all participants.