Dr. Stefania Pecore

Director of Artificial Intelligence, Sardo

Bio

Stefania embarked on her journey with a university degree in foreign languages, recognizing the need for inclusive communication when language barriers existed. As the first to introduce an AI subject to her university in Italy focused on AI and automatic translation, her path unfolded. Subsequently, she pursued higher education, obtaining a master’s and Ph.D. in CS, programming, and NLP in France.

With a passion for leveraging technology to enhance communication, she played a pivotal role in assisting numerous enterprises across diverse sectors—education, manufacturing, biotech, and even venturing into video games—by integrating NLP solutions into their products. Eager to share her insights, she became a mentor for women, holding positions as a Google Women Techmakers, Women in AI, and Women in Games Ambassador. In 2024, she became the lead of Google Women Techmakers Montréal. She was appointed as an AI Expert for UNESCO’s Women4Ethical AI allowing her to apply further her expertise in fostering responsible AI and supporting Ethical approaches in AI systems creation.

Session at Product4Good

Tech Plays Nice: UNESCO vision on Ethical Impact Assessment

In today’s fast-paced software development world, AI is increasingly prevalent. Whether you are a developer or a non-tech stakeholder, you will eventually encounter AI tools in your way (or you will ask for them!). Any dataset can harbor bias, and AI is built on data. Today it is imperative, both for the user and any stakeholder, to understand the risks and actions we can execute to build a better AI world. That is especially true since the negative impacts might go beyond the data world, into our daily life, hitting human rights and fundamental freedoms. UNESCO’s Ethical Impact Assessment EIA is a recommended methodology designed to help users identify and address potential ethical challenges from the beginning. While it needs to be adapted to the situation and industry, it’s not purely theoretical; it provides practical questions and actionable steps to create a more ethical tech landscape, ensuring everyone is involved, as actors, in building a responsible future.

🗓️ October 3, 2024

📍 Main Stage, Rialto Theater

Why are you interested in participating at Product4Good?

“I would like to participate because discussing products is inherently interesting and tangible. Products are not just items we use; they have the power to shape our daily lives significantly. Adding knowledge around products, especially concerning ethical principles, is crucial. Sharing our experiences and insights can help ensure that the products we develop and use are aligned with our values and positively impact society.

Meeting other knowledgeable and curious individuals in my city is an exciting prospect. The exchange of ideas and experiences with like-minded people can lead to personal growth and better understanding. Moreover, participating in this initiative serves a good cause: combating social issues. By focusing on ethical principles and the impact of products, we can contribute to creating solutions that address these issues, making a real difference in our community and beyond.”

Want to attend this presentation?