Upskilling for the Future: Using AI to Expand Opportunity
Event Description
AI is rapidly reshaping the future of work, from how organizations operate to how individuals learn, earn, and participate in the economy. While it holds enormous potential to expand access to opportunity, there is also a real risk that it could deepen existing inequalities if not designed and deployed intentionally.
This discussion explores how AI can be used as a force for inclusion, not exclusion. How can technology support workers across sectors, from care workers to civil servants to young people entering the workforce? What does it take to build the skills, tools, and organizational cultures needed to make AI work in practice?
We will also examine how AI can enable new pathways, from remote work and digital livelihoods to more accessible education and health services, particularly in regions like Africa and for underserved communities, including persons with disabilities. At the same time, the session will ask hard questions about job displacement, power, and who ultimately benefits from these transformations.
Bringing together perspectives from across sectors, this session invites participants to explore how to shape an AI-enabled future of work that is equitable, empowering, and grounded in real-world needs.
Speakers
Jonathan Waddingham is a Product Consultant, specializing in AI, product strategy, and mission-driven technology.
Julian Buschmaas is CEO & Co-founder of be/impact, advancing corporate learning as a driver of social impact.
Tom Orrell is Deputy Director of Programs at Development Gateway.
Discussion Questions
How can AI be used to expand access to jobs, skills, and opportunity, rather than deepen inequality?
What skills, systems, and organizational changes are needed to help workers and institutions adapt to AI?
How can AI tools be designed to support frontline workers, including care workers and public sector staff?
Who is at risk of being left behind in the AI-driven economy, and what can be done to address this?