An AI of Our Own

Innovating Community-led AI
for Cultural Preservation and Transmission across the Global South

Why this matters

so much more lies below the equator!

[ OUR VISION ]

“An AI of Our Own” is an initiative of Living Arts International, an international NGO with Cambodian roots that aims to build “a peaceful, sustainable future with the living arts as a catalyst for change.”

At AAOO, we envision a future where ethical, community-centered AI replaces extractive data models, advancing sustainable community stewardship of tools and data through advocacy, applied model development, and interdisciplinary research.

designing with people and purpose

[ OUR WAYS OF WORKING ]
Community
Centered

We center communities in our process from start to finish, ensuring the design, approach, and methodology for collecting and representing data are in line with their practices and traditions, as well as a strong focus on data governance, functionality, and accessibility.

responsible

We promote ethical AI by addressing bias in data collection and AI model training with underrepresented community groups, cultural heritage and tech experts. We consider data stewardship and environmental concerns in our choice of models and partners.

responsive

AAOO acknowledges the evolving nature of culture and technology, and the need for some data to remain sacred. Our approach is based on iteration and learning.

Our approach to a just and empowered digital future

Advocate

We aim to work with communities as equal partners and set the standard for non-extractive, community-led AI. 

Collaborate

From communities to peers, we believe that to go far, we must go together. We bring together researchers, students, grassroots organizations, activists, and more. 

Develop

We believe that experimenting and putting ideas into practice is necessary for lasting change. Starting with a few small pilot cases, we aim to continue testing and adapting.

Evolve

The landscape of technology and AI – and the world – is changing at a lightning fast speed. We aim to create, iterate, learn, and evolve, in a constant cycle of growth and adaptation.