Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping our world, but who decides what intelligence looks like? In our latest feature, Dr Jason Edward Lewis, a leading Indigenous digital media theorist, challenges the dominant Western AI models and explores how Indigenous worldviews can lead to more ethical, community-centred, and culturally reflective AI systems.

This kōrero is part of a wider podcast series that brings together Indigenous experts, researchers, and technologists to explore the intersections of Indigenous knowledge, AI, and genomics. Hosted in partnership with Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, the series delves into how Indigenous communities can actively shape and influence emerging technologies.

Dr Lewis, a Hawaiian and Samoan scholar based in Montreal, is a Professor of Computation Arts at Concordia University and a leading voice in Indigenous technology and digital storytelling. He co-founded Abundant Intelligences, a global research initiative reimagining AI through Indigenous lenses, including perspectives from Aotearoa.

In this episode, Dr Lewis discusses the concept of AI as kin, drawing from Indigenous knowledge systems that recognise relationships with non-human entities. He also highlights how Indigenous peoples can intervene in AI development to ensure it serves the well-being of all rather than reinforcing extractive and biased systems.

Want to hear more thought-provoking discussions on Indigenous AI? Tune into our podcast series, where leading experts share insights on Indigenous knowledge, technology, and the future of AI. Listen now on our new MEA nei te kōrero Spotify Channel.

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