In the Spotlight – Meet Lilian de Jong

In the Spotlight - Meet Lilian de Jong

At Women in AI we’d like to inspire others by featuring female role models that are making a difference in AI. We aim to empower women who are working in AI by highlighting their success stories. This way we hope to inspire other women and girls to get into STEM-related fields. In our series ‘In the Spotlight’ we shine a light on an expert in the field and today we’d like you to meet Lilian de Jong.

Author: Ingrid van Heuven van Staereling.

About Lilian

Lilian is one of our nominees of the current Women in AI Benelux Awards. To which she says: “I’m honored and keen to highlight my commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse voices shape the future of ethical AI.” Her journey is driven by her passion for addressing the socio-ethical challenges of technology and a belief in the power of community. As a co-founder of the Dutch AI Ethics Community, she organizes monthly events that bring together a vibrant and diverse group of AI ethics enthusiasts. She is dedicated to promoting ethical AI practices and encourages critical discourse. Which has previously been acknowledged by being honored as one of 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics™ for 2024. And who knows, she may be able to add the Women in AI Award winner to that next year..?

“In my role as a foresight researcher at Stichting Toekomstbeeld der Techniek (STT), I explore the future of human contact in digital public spaces, using foresight methodologies and engaging stakeholders.” Lilian firmly believes that by valuing diverse perspectives and working together, we can ensure (AI) technologies are developed responsibly and ethically. And we could only applaud that!

Empowering Ethical-Aware AI Professionals

As mentioned above, Lilian is a co-founder of the Dutch AI Ethics Community (DAIEC). “Our goal is to foster a diverse, inclusive community where AI ethics is at the forefront.” -Lilian explains. She is keen on enhancing awareness and education on AI ethics, and her way to do this is by organizing monthly educational programs and providing an online platform to connect and discuss. “This not only empowers ethically-aware AI professionals but also enriches the AI discourse with diverse perspectives.” By fostering a space for critical thinking and knowledge sharing, she helps to shape a more responsible AI ecosystem in the Netherlands. “Our efforts to engage young voices and encourage diverse perspectives contribute to a robust and ethically-sound AI landscape in the Netherlands, creating a space where everyone can learn, discuss and contribute to ethical AI.”

“Through supporting AI ethics initiatives and engaging young voices, I work towards a future where AI technologies are developed responsibly and inclusively."

Impacting how AI is Perceived and Applied

Being co-founder of the Dutch AI Ethics Community (DAIEC) makes her pretty aware of all that is involved when it comes to the ethical practices of AI. It brings her a sense of fulfillment in having this type of impact on this fast-developing field. “Being part of this allows me to make a meaningful impact on AI and the world by promoting the importance of ethical considerations in AI development.”

Driving awareness and education on AI ethics helps to ensure both current and future AI professionals understand the ethical implications of their work. And by providing a platform for critical discourse and fostering diverse perspectives, Lilian contributes to a global conversation about the societal impacts of AI. “Through supporting AI ethics initiatives and engaging young voices, I work towards a future where AI technologies are developed responsibly and inclusively.” With this collective effort Lilian is guiding AI advancements in a way that it benefits all individuals and communities. She believes it will ultimately influence how AI is perceived and applied worldwide.

Being Part of the WAI Awards

By taking the steps mentioned above, Lilian has become a part of the top 5 Nominees of Responsible AI Leaders of the Women in AI Benelux Awards. The Women in AI Awards celebrates remarkable women who are making an impact on shaping the future of AI. Their expertise and unique perspectives are driving innovation. Women like Lilian are committed to leading the future of AI. Would you like to learn more about the Award nominees and what they have done? Join us on November 15 from 13:30 to 20:00 at the Women in AI Summit, where our Top 5 nominees will be officially presented. The event will celebrate 30 outstanding women in AI who are making a significant impact across the Benelux region.