Mila and Indspire have introduced the first cohort of their Indigenous Pathfinders in AI programme, a unique initiative aimed at exploring AI through Indigenous perspectives and approaches.
The programme combines in-person and online learning sessions, activities, and collaborative projects to provide participants with a comprehensive exploration of AI, focusing on Indigenous approaches, perspectives, and communities.
The diverse cohort includes 13 participants from various Indigenous backgrounds across Canada, each bringing unique experiences and aspirations to the programme. Participants range from undergraduate and graduate students to professionals in fields such as computer science, physics, environmental studies, and health sciences.
Participants expressed interest in various aspects of AI, including its ethical implications, potential applications in Indigenous language preservation, and its role in addressing community-specific challenges.
By providing this unique learning opportunity, Mila and Indspire are fostering a new generation of Indigenous AI professionals who can contribute to the development of AI technologies that are inclusive and responsive to Indigenous needs and values.