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Join us for a bold and witty conversation about what it really means to build ethical AI for youth. This isn’t your typical dry panel - expect interactive discussion, student voices, and real talk on how tech can (and should) support learning and well-being.
Midway through, eight students will lead debates on pressing ethical questions, giving the audience a chance to participate, reflect, and connect with peers, panelists, and mentors.
We will dive into:
How students see and experience AI
The importance of ethics in guidance tech
What it takes to “delete bias and install guidance”
Collaboration between youth, educators, and innovators
Whether you are a student, educator, developer, or just AI-curious, this event is your chance to hear fresh perspectives, ask questions, and challenge assumptions.
Schedule (5:30–8:30 PM)
5:30–5:40 PM → Welcome & Introduction
5:40–6:20 PM → Panel Session 1: Ethical AI & Bias
6:20–6:40 PM → Student Debate Round 1 (4 debates, 1v1 format)
6:40–6:55 PM → Panel Session 2: Trust, Guidance & Youth in AI
6:55–7:15 PM → Student Debate Round 2 (4 debates, 1v1 format)
7:15–7:30 PM → Panel Session 3: Youth Agency in AI
7:30–7:50 PM → Championship Debate
7:50–8:10 PM → Panel Wrap-Up: Looking 5–10 Years Ahead
8:10–8:30 PM → Audience Q&A, Closing Remarks & Thank-Yous
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If you are interested in signing up for the debate portion of the event and becoming a debater, please note that this opportunity is only open to students.
There are two types of tickets available:
Ethical AI Pass (Free): For anyone who would like to attend the event, listen to the panelists, learn more about AI, and connect with others.
AI Ethics Debater (Free, by approval): For students who would like to participate in the debate. We are only accepting 8 debaters. After you submit your form, we will reach out for a short interview/chat to learn more about your debating experience and make sure you are comfortable debating in front of a large audience.
Debaters will be told the seven possible topics for the evening in advance, but your specific topic will only be revealed five minutes before the debate begins. The format will be:
First round: 1 vs. 1 debates (4 matches → 4 winners)
Second round: 1 vs. 1 debates (2 matches → 2 winners)
Final round: 1 vs. 1 debate → 1 winner!!
This is a great opportunity to get noticed, practice your debating skills, and share your voice with a supportive, smart audience.
If you want to sign up as a debater, please use the AI Ethics Debater Form.
⚠️ You do not need to register with the Ethical AI Pass if you are signing up as a debater.
⚠️ Make sure to answer all questions in the form - incomplete forms will not be considered.
You will be notified if you are selected for the interview and, afterwards, if you are chosen to debate at the event.
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If you are part of a company, non-profit, or community organization working in technology, AI, or education, we’d love to have you join us at our event! This is a unique opportunity to promote your work, connect with youth, and showcase your impact in the Waterloo Region during Tech Week.
Organizations will have the chance to:
Share their initiatives and programs with students and the community
Network with educators, innovators, and future leaders
Be part of an event centered on ethical AI, youth voices, and education
If your organization is interested in participating, please email us at [email protected] so we can discuss details further.
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We are official event hosts with Waterloo Tech Week 2025, a celebration of what’s been built here, and what’s still to come. We’re building something great together. September 8-11, 2025. waterlootechweek.ca