Reimagining AI Through Indigenous Perspectives, Leading With Matriarchal Values, and Listening to Your Body

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Redefining AI: Everyday AI prioritizes the perspective of white, cis, males – it’s inherently biased. Shani is redefining AI as a tool to address bias and misinformation, aiming to foster a more empathetic and inclusive online space. By embedding Indigenous perspectives in AI, technology can become a force for positive change. 
2. Matriarchal Leadership: Shani’s leadership style prioritizes community involvement and collective input, breaking away from traditional hierarchical structures and emphasizing shared responsibility. Matriarchal leadership also recognizes the gifts that everyone brings to work.
3. Listen to Your Body’s Signals: Shani speaks about learning to trust her body’s responses as she navigates challenges, underscoring the importance of self-awareness in making aligned, authentic decisions. 
4. Embrace Continuous Learning and Reflection: Shani advocates for listening to internal and external cues, challenging societal expectations, and recognizing that valuable insights often come from quiet reflection (like being in nature) and lived experiences.
5. Encourage Authenticity in the Workplace: Shani encourages bringing one’s whole self to work, fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to be authentic. She believes that work quality improves when people can contribute openly without feeling the need to “people-please” or second-guess their instincts. Authenticity not only strengthens team dynamics but also aligns actions with personal and community values, making work more meaningful.

Show Notes: 

[00:01:03] Shani introduces the story behind her AI tool, wâsikan kisewâtisiwin meaning “kind electricity.” 

[00:05:16] Shani explains how the AI tool detects hate speech and misinformation, giving users options to hide offensive comments and take emotional labour off Indigenous individuals. 

[00:06:47] Shani reflects on a recent pitch at MIT and her excitement about bringing this technology to larger audiences.

[00:07:12] Building a company with Indigenous women leaders and fostering community-oriented decision-making.

[00:10:29] How to listen to your body’s responses when making difficult decisions and learning from the missteps along your journey.

[00:13:23] Overcoming self-doubt and reflections on finding self-assurance and clarity as a leader.

[00:20:31] The balance between masculine and feminine approaches in leadership, symbolized by the metaphor of an eagle balancing its wings.

[00:23:28] Gina reflects on her own experiences with leadership and how stepping back allowed her team to grow and make empowered decisions, aligning with Shani’s philosophy.

[00:27:14] The need to “listen back” to internal and external cues, explaining how moments of clarity often come when you’re still and reflective.

[00:32:00] Shani recounts a powerful experience finding a conch shell, interpreting it as a sign validating her connection to her path and purpose.

[00:36:38] Collective decision-making in a matriarchal system, noting how Indigenous culture values self-sovereignty while emphasizing community connection.[00:41:16] Shani talks about embracing authenticity in the workplace and encourages her team to bring their full selves to work without fear of judgment.