Women urged to seize opportunities in AI revolution

Women should actively participate in the creation and development of artificial intelligence (AI) rather than merely consuming it, according to Zanele Njapha, CEO and founder of The UnLearners. Speaking at the Wired4Women National Women’s Day event, Njapha highlighted both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI for women.

AI offers a unique chance, she explained, to create products, services, and businesses with minimal resources. However, women must not remain absent from its development because their absence leads to biased AI, she warned. This bias can have economic consequences, as organizations that fail to adopt AI risk falling behind competitors.

Njapha emphasized that women need to rethink their approach to work by integrating AI into their daily routines, transforming themselves into "bionic humans" – combining AI, technology, and human elements. The transition calls for a shift in traditional job descriptions and career paths, focusing on delivering outcomes rather than adhering to single disciplines.

Moreover, Njapha pointed out that workplace systems and reward structures often favor traditionally masculine leadership, causing women to adapt their leadership styles to progress. She stressed that diversity should not be viewed simply as a representation exercise but as a catalyst for innovation. Njapha urged women not to wait for a perfect role model but to look at existing female leaders and envision the possibilities.

Mentorship and sponsorship can also assist women in advancing their careers by opening doors and accelerating progress. Ultimately, Njapha emphasized the importance of adaptability as the most crucial skill for women navigating the future of technology.