Community-Owned Data and AI: From Extraction to Shared Value

​Event Description

Data is often treated as a resource to be extracted, analyzed, and monetized—frequently without the meaningful participation or benefit of the communities who generate it. As AI accelerates this dynamic, the question is no longer just about access to data, but about ownership, governance, and value distribution.

This session explores how community-owned data can shift data from an extractive model to a shared economic and civic asset. What does it look like when communities not only contribute data, but also shape how it is used, governed, and monetized?

We will examine emerging models of data sovereignty and accountability, particularly in contexts where citizen-generated data informs public services, humanitarian response, and policy decisions. The discussion will also explore the role of AI within this ecosystem: who trains the models, who governs them, and who ultimately benefits from the value they create.

Grounded in practical examples—from community datasets and service delivery tracking to public-interest audits—this session will focus on how to build data systems that are equitable, transparent, and locally governed.

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​Speakers

• ​Elsa Marie DSilva is Founder at Red Dot Foundation Global, driving civic tech solutions that use data to combat gender-based violence and improve urban safety.

• ​Mavae Ahio is Director at Algo-'Ola, advancing data sovereignty and community-led development to empower Pacific communities.

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Discussion Questions
What does true community ownership of data look like in practice?
How can we move from extractive data models to shared value systems?
Who should govern AI systems built on community data?
What safeguards are needed to ensure accountability and prevent harm?

​Location & access
Accessibility matters deeply to us, and we do our best to choose spaces that reflect that. That said, some of our Oxford venues are in historic buildings without lifts. This room is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges, or anyone needing step-free access.