Welcome to Headstart, a dynamic initiative designed to close the AI gender gap by empowering young women and educators with the tools and connections needed to thrive in the world of artificial intelligence. Through engaging educational content, hands-on workshops, and supportive networking, we aim to build a community poised to drive gender equality in AI.
The Headstart project is set within a context where the field of artificial intelligence (AI) exhibits a considerable gender disparity, with women markedly underrepresented. Its objective is to address this by empowering young women and educators with essential skills, knowledge, and networks. By offering resources such as visual showcases, AI toolkits, and networking opportunities, Headstart aims to inspire and support the next generation of women in AI, striving for systemic change towards a more inclusive and diverse AI community.
The Visual Resource Showcase targets the AI gender gap by offering visual resources to young women and educators, encouraging fair involvement. It involves producing educational content with women in AI to inspire young women and equip educators for inclusive teaching. The result is an online collection of interviews and adaptable, multilingual content to boost AI understanding, confidence, and inclusivity.
The Headstart AI Toolbox equips educators with gender-appropriate AI materials to prepare young women for AI careers, involving workshops and ethical AI training. The project enhances AI skills, teaching methods, and promotes inclusivity in AI education. Main outcomes include practical AI experience for young women and improved teaching resources for educators.
The Networking and Mentoring sessions offer mentorship from female AI professionals to young women, fostering confidence and career insights in AI. Key outcomes include a guide for organising effective sessions, direct mentorship for over 80 young women, and a sustainable model for future engagement, promoting a more inclusive AI sector.
