Introduction To The Visionary Issue

Dear Reader,

During a particularly inspiring morning walk this past Spring, when the air was thick with the scent of dogwood trees in full bloom, I was struck with a vision of how different our modern life would be if women were at the helm of all of Big Tech. That reflective moment gave rise to the idea for WAIV Magazine (Women in the AI Vanguard); a vision to create a publication that not only highlights but celebrates the voices of women and other marginalized groups in AI and tech.

Five months later, you are reading the Visionary issue! We start this journey with the belief that being visionary means reimagining a tech landscape where diversity is not just an add-on but the very foundation of innovation. It's about dreaming of a future where the talents of women, LGBTQ+ individuals, minority groups and those with disabilities are not rare in tech leadership but commonplace. So it seemed only appropriate that we begin our endeavor with a "Visionary" theme.

With an intentionally unique design aesthetic that is as artistic as it is informative, we want WAIV Magazine to be a refreshing departure from traditional tech publications. We want it to be a welcoming, gentler, non-judgemental space for technologists to share ideas that can propel us all forward.

We are honored to launch this issue on The International Day of Indigenous Women, and invite you to explore AI from perspectives that are often overlooked. Discover how marginalized voices are reshaping AI, ensuring that technology reflects the rich diversity of our world. For instance in "Voices of Our Land", Gabriela Salas Cabreras illuminates how AI can be transformational in preserving Indigenous languages that are at risk of being lost forever. Gabriela graces our issue cover and is an accomplished Data Scientist and the first Indigenous woman in the tech field with the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World-UNESCO. She has also collaborated with Google to integrate Nahuatl and Mayan languages into Google Translate.

Our visual essay, "The Future Wrapped in Paper Flowers," blends technology with artistry, challenging conventional tech aesthetics and showcasing the beauty of diverse perspectives. Further exploring the concept of 'visionary' - we examine "Friendship In The Age Of AI" and it reveals that while algorithms may enhance our connections, the essence of human bonds will remain just that - human. . . and perfectly imperfect. We even let AI offer its take on the future of friendship—in our "Story Project" feature. It's a sweet short story that showcases the synergy between human creativity and machine intelligence.

In "Visionary Instagram Accounts", we share a few of our favorite accounts that align with our worldview and AI For Good ethos. These are visionaries in their own right, who show us that the most powerful algorithm is the human spirit, especially when it draws from a wide range of experiences and perspectives. Finally, meet the "AI Vanguards" who are redefining the field, their stories filled with inspiration and insight.

As you explore our first issue, I hope you'll feel the same sense of possibility that inspired its creation. If you do, please accept our invitation to join our efforts toward a more just technological future and become a member. Become part of a growing community that reflects the multifaceted brilliance of women and underrepresented voices.

To be visionary is to see beyond today’s limitations and understanding that the next big leap in AI might come from a voice that hasn’t been heard before. True innovation happens when all voices are included and valued.

With warmth and excitement for the journey ahead,

Raji Mohanam Kotian

Editor, WAIV Magazine