AI Leaders Talk Shaping the Future of AI

TIME hosted its inaugural Impact Dinner in San Francisco on a Monday evening, marking the beginning of a weeklong celebration of the TIME100 AI list. This list recognizes the 100 most influential individuals in artificial intelligence, showcasing the rapid evolution of the technology and its extensive impact across various industries. The event featured 91 newcomers, highlighting the field's explosive growth and its ability to attract diverse talent. During the dinner, three distinguished AI leaders delivered powerful toasts, each offering unique insights into the transformative potential of AI. Amba Kak, co-executive director of the AI Now Institute, emphasized the need to consider the societal implications of AI, urging attendees to democratize decision-making processes and ensure that those affected by AI systems have a voice in their deployment. King Willonius, a comedian and filmmaker, shared his personal experiences with AI-assisted creativity, illustrating how the technology can empower underrepresented communities and amplify voices that have been historically marginalized. He called for responsible development while celebrating AI's ability to break down barriers in creative expression. Lisa Su, CEO of AMD, highlighted AI's potential to tackle significant global challenges, likening the current AI revolution to pivotal moments in history such as the industrial era. She expressed optimism about AI's applications in healthcare, envisioning advancements in disease identification and drug development. The evening served as a rallying point for leaders to collaborate and harness AI's full potential responsibly.