Erin Taylor demands AI solutions for disabilities at Zero Project Conference

On March 4, 2025, in Vienna, Austria, Erin Taylor, a young woman diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2023, presented a groundbreaking demonstration at the Zero Project Conference. During this event, she steered her wheelchair before the national parliament and other dignitaries while utilizing an eye-controlled device to project a hyper-realistic avatar onto large screens. This avatar facilitated her speech, emphasizing the importance of technology specifically designed for persons with disabilities. As she engaged the audience with humor and multilingual capabilities, her message underscored the need for technology that is developed with input from those who require it, promoting inclusivity and accessibility through AI. The conference was hosted at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna, presenting a platform for various stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, non-profits, and technology leaders like Lenovo, to explore collaborative solutions aimed at democratizing technology. Speakers, including LaVonne Roberts, CEO of SMF United States, echoed Taylor's sentiments about ensuring that digital rights are recognized as human rights. They stressed the significance of fostering a culture of inclusive design within organizations, illustrating this by referencing the concept of 'curb cutting,' which not only benefits individuals in wheelchairs but also aids parents with strollers and many others. First-hand experiences and lived knowledge were highlighted as essential components in the development of effective assistive technology. Ada Lopez from Lenovo highlighted the importance of shared insights across various organizations to create sustainable and impactful innovations. Participants at the conference engaged in discussions around evaluating and scaling accessible technologies, with an emphasis on collaboration as key to unlocking the full potential of assistive devices and solutions. The event transitioned into a broader dialogue on corporate responsibility and employee engagement, as executives traveled to Bratislava, Slovakia, following the conference. There, Lenovo's leadership sought to harness the momentum from the Zero Project, engaging with local initiatives to promote inclusivity across all levels of the organization. This included conversations regarding employee resource groups, specific actions to enhance the quality of life for employees, and expanding initiatives aimed at creating a more equitable tech future. Overall, the conference was not only a celebration of technological achievements but also a powerful call to action for a more inclusive society.