Women, rise and shine with the power of AI

Daniel Shin

Among the most critical components of inclusive leadership is the presence of women in decision-making positions. In the 21st century, a time defined by rapid technology advancement, global interdependence and complex social challenges, diverse and inclusive leadership is no longer a progressive aspiration but a strategic imperative. Hence, the world cannot afford to overlook the transformative impact of women leaders who can bring fresh perspectives, emotional intelligence, collaborative approaches and a deeper commitment to equity and sustainability.

Women in leadership are neither a luxury nor a symbol, nor a token of progress. It is an essential foundation for the future. Nowadays, complexity demands diversity of thought. Empathy is a huge strength. What women can do and the value of women’s leadership is, therefore, not just important, but irreplaceable.

The World Economic Forum estimates that closing the economic gender gap could add trillions of dollars to global GDP. However, this fantastic opportunity will remain unrealized unless more women are supported to step into leadership roles. Don’t get me wrong. It is not about replacing men, but about rebalancing power. A shared leadership model, where men and women work together as equals, would yield the most sustainable progress and better social outcomes.

As such, the age of artificial intelligence (AI) must be inclusive and driven by women-led innovation. AI holds enormous potential to not only reshape industries, but also redefine who leads them. AI represents a historic opportunity for women to leapfrog over traditional and patriarchal boundaries, close the gender gap in professional and political leadership, and drive inclusive innovation on a global scale. Women have everything it takes to be at the forefront of this AI revolution.

It was a great honor and a heartfelt thrill to witness the 35th Global Summit of Women (GSW), a powerful gathering of minds and hearts united by a shared mission to accelerate women’s leadership in every corner of the world. The GSW is not just an event, it is a movement. For more than three decades, it has been a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and a global platform where ideas turn into action, and where voices that have long been silenced are finally heard.

This year, the summit invited Elke Büdenbender, a former judge in Germany who is also the wife of Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the current president of Germany. Christine Lagarde, the current president of the European Central Bank and the former long-time chief of the International Monetary Fund, and Monika Schulz-Strelow, co-founder of FidAR, an association that advocates for a sustainable increase in the proportion of women on the supervisory boards of German companies, were recognized for their outstanding commitment to equality.

Kim Sung-Joo, chairperson of luxury brand MCM and the Sungjoo Foundation, who hosted the gala dinner, made a surprise announcement about a multiyear pledge to provide AI literacy education for underprivileged women. It is a timely action. Using AI is becoming a basic skill, like reading and math. AI is no longer just the domain of computer geeks. It is the language of tomorrow’s world. If we want a future that is fair, inclusive and human-centered, AI education must begin now and reach everyone, not just the privileged, but the curious, the courageous and the underserved.

AI is everywhere. Unlike past industrial revolutions, the AI era is still being shaped. New roles requiring AI literacy are emerging. AI also carries risks such as bias, misinformation, surveillance, job displacement and inequality. Therefore, AI leaders should understand the social, cultural and philosophical implications of AI beyond technical knowledge. The future of AI must be guided not just by what is possible, but by what is responsible, and women are best situated to lead the way.

Women leaders have risen through the ranks while navigating social and structural barriers. They’ve done it while exhibiting high resilience, adaptability and visionary thinking. Women leaders champion collaborative problem-solving, empathetic communication and inclusive work cultures that are essential for navigating today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous world.

Every woman who breaks a glass ceiling helps pave the way for the next generation. This ripple effect, now powered by AI, can transform communities, industries and ultimately societies as it helps maximize the human potential that has been limited by patriarchal social norms for centuries.

Daniel Shin is a venture capitalist and luxury fashion executive who has passion for entrepreneurship and education.