Empowering Youth Voices through AI
In a groundbreaking move, Girls Who Code is launching its new campaign, Speak On It, designed to empower girls and nonbinary youth to articulate their views and emotions regarding artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative comes at a time when only 29% of the AI workforce is represented by women, highlighting the urgent need for gender inclusivity in the tech world. Through this campaign, Girls Who Code seeks to transform how young individuals perceive themselves as creators and influencers within the AI landscape.
Why Representation Matters in AI
The gender gap in technology is a significant issue, especially in AI development. CEO of Girls Who Code, Tarika Barrett, emphasizes that, "Speak On It amplifies the voices of girls and nonbinary youth — the very people being left out of the rooms where AI is being created." This initiative endorses the belief that AI is a force for good, provided it is shaped by diverse voices that mirror societal values and ethics. By encouraging this dialogue, the campaign aims to ensure future developments in AI are responsible and inclusive.
A Closer Look at the Campaign Features
The Speak On It campaign collaborates with renowned creative agency Schaaf to feature various engaging elements aimed at drawing attention to youth opinions on AI. The campaign lasts an entire month and introduces several interactive components:
Candid Conversations with Creators
Creators, such as Brooke Barone and Michelle Lawson, will share their insights about AI, motivating young girls and nonbinary individuals to voice their perceptions and push for their rightful place in the tech conversation.
Street Perspectives on Technology
LizaBanks, a comedian and NYC tour guide, ventures into public spaces to gather authentic viewpoints on AI from everyday individuals. This interactive street engagement allows the campaign to reflect diverse experiences and opinions, enriching the conversation.
New Interactive Content
The initiative also includes an exciting episode from the TikTok show Are You Okay?, premiering soon, to broaden the discussions around AI in a space familiar to the youth audience.
The Hot Take Hotline
A unique feature of this campaign is the Hot Take Hotline, where individuals can text in their thoughts about AI. Selected contributions will be showcased on the Speak On It website, thereby fostering extended conversations and actions among participants.
Research Insights on Youth and AI
In tandem with the campaign, Girls Who Code releases the report titled Youth & AI: What Young Women Think About Generative AI, developed in conjunction with UCLA. This vital research sheds light on how Gen Z girls and nonbinary youth perceive generative AI, offering insight into its effects on their identities and aspirations.
Continued Engagement and Support
Girls Who Code encourages everyone to follow along with the campaign on social media platforms and engage in the conversation about the future of AI. By doing so, young people can take part in shaping a technology landscape that reflects their values and needs.
About Girls Who Code
Girls Who Code is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology. The organization has positively impacted over 760,000 students and remains a leader in preparing the upcoming generation for success in fast-evolving fields including AI and cybersecurity. Their innovative campaigns, such as the creation of the world’s first codeable music video with Doja Cat, have garnered 14.9 billion global impressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 'Speak On It' campaign?
The campaign aims to empower girls and nonbinary youth to voice their views and engage in discussions about AI, promoting diversity in technology.
Who is involved in the campaign?
Creators like Brooke Barone, Michelle Lawson, and LizaBanks are collaborating with Girls Who Code to bring youth perspectives to the forefront.
How can individuals participate in the discussions on AI?
Individuals can contribute their thoughts via the Hot Take Hotline and engage through social media platforms associated with the campaign.
What does the research report cover?
The report examines how Gen Z girls and nonbinary youth perceive generative AI and its impact on their identities and future careers.
How does Girls Who Code support young people in tech?
Girls Who Code provides educational resources and programs designed to prepare the next generation for careers in technology, especially in areas like AI and cybersecurity.
