Building an AI community

Participants from the MBZUAI Executive Program gathered on Saturday, November 6, for a day of engaging activities designed to build bridges between participants and facilitate collaboration. Around 30 participants and leaders from MBZUAI took part in planned activities designed to open essential dialogue and begin the process of building an AI community.

The evening began with a contemplative walk through a section of mangrove forest on Jubail Island. As a natural treasure, the mangroves—a source of national pride—face constant threat from urbanization and global climate change. Participants were immersed in the delicate ecosystem, which was intended to symbolize the delicate balance between the preservation of current ways of doing business, and the rapid progress that implementation of AI systems can bring if not undertaken thoughtfully and collaboratively.

Participants then proceeded to a dinner where organizers encouraged the forming of new connections and the breaking of bread to symbolize greater understanding among colleagues and across organizations.

“The outing was organized to break the ice, and give participants a chance to become comfortable with each other so they can share ideas and connect with one another. We know that this will lead to greater synergy between participants and build a network of like-minded people who will cooperate to channel AI into a force for positive progress,” said Xing.

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