We’re proud to spotlight Elze Swinkels, a passionate biomedical engineer leveraging AI and ultrasound technology to revolutionize tuberculosis detection in underserved regions. With a background in (Bio)Medical Engineering and an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) from TU Eindhoven, Elze is dedicated to creating accessible, life-changing healthcare solutions.
We’re thrilled to introduce Flor de Guadalupe Ortiz Gomez, a visionary research scientist combining AI and satellite technology to revolutionize global communications and sustainability! With a Ph.D. in Telecommunications Engineering, Flor leads groundbreaking projects at the University of Luxembourg’s SnT, focusing on AI-powered satellite systems.
We shine a light on Estefania Hernandez—an inspiring entrepreneur, AI innovator, and advocate for workplace equity. From launching Mi Dulce Hogar, a social impact venture empowering domestic workers in Mexico, to co-founding Everyday, an AI-driven workforce planning platform in the Netherlands, Estefania’s journey is a testament to the power of combining technology with social progress.
Cristina Zaga's pioneering work merges technology with humanity, crafting what she calls "Responsible Futuring" to ensure AI serves all people, not just the privileged. From founding initiatives like JEDAI (Justice, Equity, Diversity in AI) to championing DEI4Embodied AI networks, Cristina is redefining the potential of AI to foster societal connection and equity.
Dr. Payal Arora (PhD, Columbia Univ. NYC), is a Professor of Inclusive AI Cultures at Utrecht University and co-founder of FemLab, a feminist futures of work initiative and Inclusive AI Lab, a stakeholder initiative to build inclusive tech with the Global South. She is a leading digital anthropologist with two decades of user experiences in the Global South and is the author of 100+ journal articles and award-winning books.
Anouk Dutrée, Head of Product at UbiOps, is redefining how companies bring AI applications to life. With her background in Nanobiology, Computer Science, and Game Development, Anouk’s journey in AI has been all about making advanced technology accessible and impactful.
Ajuna Soerjadi is 24 years old and has a background in philosophy. She specializes in the ethics and political philosophy of data, technology and AI. Ajuna has been doing that from different roles. She founded Expertisecentrum Data-Ethiek 4 years ago, and has also been a privacy officer, a researcher at the State Commission against Discrimination and Racism and a diversity and inclusion ambassador for ECHO.
Caroline Vandenplas's dedication extends beyond being a Senior Data Scientist and Managing Partner at B12 Consulting. As a member of the Belgian Federal Advisory Committee on Ethics in Data and AI and through her involvement with Stem4Her, she’s paving the way for responsible AI development and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
Lilian de Jong is one of our nominees of the current WAI Benelux Awards. 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.
This week we’d like to put a Spotlight on Nava Tintarev, a full Professor in Explainable Artificial Intelligence at Maastricht University. Nava's work is revolutionizing how AI-driven systems are understood and trusted, making AI more transparent and fair. In a world driven by digital decisions, Nava's research addresses the challenges of filter bubbles and information silos.