Connection as the foundation: How AI can build bridges

AI has the potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges—but only when it starts with people at the center. In this session, Cameron Kruse, Director of Digital Technology at Bridges to Prosperity, and Julie Lane, Head of Social Impact Operations at Cisco, will introduce a human-centered framework for using AI to support the world’s most vulnerable populations in their daily lives, enhancing their connectedness. They’ll highlight how Bridges to Prosperity, a Cisco Foundation grantee, uses AI to determine the most impactful sites for new infrastructure, like trail bridges — making it safer and easier for locals to access education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and more. From enabling access to vital infrastructure in remote regions to fostering greater inclusion in the digital economy, they will share real-world examples and discuss what it takes to ensure that the power of AI uplifts everyone, everywhere.