On Saturday, July 27th, an inspiring event took place aimed at empowering young girls in the Caribbean community through technology. The Tech4Girls Bahamas Workshop: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence was held remotely and brought together girls to delve into the exciting world of AI from multiple islands including the Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti, St. Lucia and Grenada. This workshop was not just about learning; it was about building confidence, sparking curiosity, and laying the groundwork for future careers in technology.
Event Highlights
The workshop kicked off with an Opening and Welcome by Shakera Johnson with Cable Bahamas, setting a positive and enthusiastic tone for the day. Following this, we had a series of remarkable remarks from prominent leaders in the tech and telecommunications industry:
- Sherri McMillan Executive Officer Corporate Communications and Administration at TATT, shared her insights on the benefits of generative AI tools for young women; highlighting both the ways AI is already used daily as well as inspiring attendees to think of how to use it responsibly in unique ways. McMillan discussed the gender gap in ICT, bringing the value of digital inclusion in AI access and usage throughout the Caribbean to the forefront.
- Carlos Bosch, head of GSMA North America, highlighted the significance of AI in today’s interconnected world. Bosch emboldened the attendees to go from users of AI to enablers of AI in order to include everyone in AI education.
- Tracy Boucher, VP of Engineering at Cable Bahamas Ltd, emphasized the role of community and collaboration in fostering tech education. Boucher challenged attendees to redefine the future by overcoming social boundaries in the tech sector through coming together.
- Teresa Wankin, Secretary General of CANTO, delivered an inspirational speech that encouraged the girls to dream big and explore the AI field to position themselves as the forefront of change.
- Abby Knowles, VP of Info Tech at Verizon, emphasized the role of community and collaboration in fostering tech education. Knowles shared her own story, comparing her upbringing and experiences to the participants in the room — showing them that they have the potential to accomplish anything.
Keynote Address
The keynote address was from Dr. Nadine Sangster, Director of iGovTT. Dr. Sangster’s talk was both enlightening and motivating, providing the girls with a broader perspective on the impact of AI and technology in multiple fields. From discussing the history of AI, to current opportunities within the sector it was made clear that Artificial Intelligence is a diverse and valuable field. Dr. Sangster centered the passions and dreams of the attendees, letting them know that through inclusive education and community they are able to be apart of the growth of AI.
Workshop Sessions
The heart of the event was the workshop session led by Raj Ramdass of RSC. The workshop covered:
- Basics of AI: An introduction to what Artificial Intelligence is and how it works.
- Utilizing AI Tools: Practical insights into the tools and technologies used in AI.
- Training AI: Understanding the basics of how AI models are trained and developed.
- Other Tech Themes: Exploring various other themes related to technology and innovation.
Workshop rooms were organized by experience level. Some advanced students were in training rooms dedicated to advanced AI topics, while other students were in rooms dedicated to introducing students to AI basics. This structure ensured that all participants received education tailored to their skill levels, making the workshop both inclusive and effective.
Celebrating Achievements
Participants who completed the workshop received a document of completion and gained entry into the EQUALS system, an initiative aimed at bridging the gender gap in technology.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our volunteers who made this event possible. Their dedication, expertise, and passion were instrumental in making the Tech4Girls Bahamas Workshop a success. Each volunteer played a crucial role in ensuring that the girls had a memorable and impactful learning experience.
This event was a testament to the power of education and community in shaping the future of young girls in technology. We look forward to more such workshops and initiatives that continue to inspire and empower the next generation of tech leaders.