Why We Need To Empower Women To Build The Future Of AI
We have a responsibility to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) is developed with inclusivity and diversity at its core.
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just a buzzword anymore; it's the invisible force shaping our daily experiences. From the algorithms that curate our social media feeds to the virtual try-on tools revolutionizing the beauty industry, AI is woven into the fabric of our lives. But here's the crucial question: Who's weaving that fabric?
In industries like retail, where AI is transforming how consumers interact with brands, the answer matters deeply. Women, who drive a significant portion of global consumer spending, influencing 70-80 percent of all consumer purchasing decisions, especially in sectors like beauty and wellness, hold a unique understanding of consumer needs. Yet, they remain vastly underrepresented in the development of AI technologies. This gap isn't just a matter of fairness; it's a fundamental flaw in the design process.
AI systems reflect the perspectives of their creators. If women are not at the table, their needs and experiences risk being overlooked, leading to AI that falls short of its potential. We need AI that resonates, empowers, and truly serves the diverse needs of its users. And that requires women to be at the forefront of its creation.
The reality is stark: Women comprise less than 22 percent of AI professionals globally and only 18 percent of AI researchers. This underrepresentation isn't just a missed opportunity; it's a critical loss of potential. AI's true power lies in its ability to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions. But without diverse voices shaping its development, we're only tapping into a fraction of its capabilities.
To unlock AI's full potential, we must actively create pathways for women to enter and thrive in this field. This isn't just about filling quotas; it's about building a future where AI reflects the rich tapestry of human experience.
Building the Future: Actionable Steps
How do we bridge this gap? It starts with education and mentorship. We need to inspire and empower young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), showcasing the real-world impact of AI in industries they're passionate about.
Reports show that only 28.2 percent of the STEM workforce is female. By empowering young women to enter this space, we open up the possibility of developing AI-powered beauty solutions that better understand and cater to more diverse needs. That's the power of representation.
Beyond education, we need to invest in women-led startups and initiatives. Women entrepreneurs bring unique insights and perspectives to the table, driving innovation that resonates with female consumers. However, in 2023, startups founded solely by women received less than three percent of venture capital funding. By providing them with the resources and support they need, we can foster a vibrant ecosystem of women-led AI innovation.
And finally, we need to lead by example. As a woman in a leadership position in AI, I understand the importance of visibility. When women see other women succeeding in this field, they're more likely to believe that these opportunities are attainable for themselves. Despite 73 percent of business leaders acknowledging the importance of women in AI leadership to mitigate gender bias, only 33 percent currently have women in charge of AI strategy decision-making. We need to create a culture where women's voices are not only welcomed but also celebrated.
Shaping Tomorrow: The Power of Women in AI
The future of AI is not predetermined. It's being shaped by the decisions we make today. We have a responsibility to ensure that AI is developed with inclusivity and diversity at its core. By empowering women to shape AI, we're not just creating better technology; we're creating a better future for everyone.
Let's commit to building a future where AI reflects the diverse needs and experiences of all its users. Let's ensure that women are not just consumers of AI, but creators, innovators, and leaders in this transformative field. The time to act is now.
The need to include women in the development of AI is paramount. With AI transforming industries and consumer experiences, the current underrepresentation of women in AI development risks creating technologies that amplify biases and overlook the diverse needs of a significant portion of the population.
To fully harness AI's potential, we must actively foster the next generation of female tech leaders. This involves empowering women through education and mentorship, investing in women-led initiatives, and championing leadership by example. By taking these steps, we can ensure that AI is not only innovative but also inclusive, representative, and truly beneficial for everyone.
About The Author
As the founder and CEO of Perfect Corp., a pioneering company in software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions leveraging augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) for the beauty and fashion industries, Alice Chang leads a global team of over 330 employees. With her vision and determination, she transformed Perfect Corp. into the first Taiwanese SaaS company to go public on the New York Stock Exchange. In an industry where female CEOs of major corporations are still a rarity, she stands out as a unique figure, embodying a rare example of female leadership on a global scale.
