Interviews

WAM Tech Talks – Interview with Dr Natalie R

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in artificial intelligence?

AI presents a blank canvas, for each to contribute to…I’ve always believed technology can solve Africa’s biggest challenges when driven by diverse voices. AI is the next frontier of innovation and equity, and I wanted to be part of shaping it responsibly. It’s a powerful tool to uplift communities when built by all of us.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman working in AI, and how have you overcome them?

Being underestimated or the only woman in the room is still common. I turned these barriers into fuel by building communities that uplift women and create tangible opportunities. We shift the narrative by being visible, excellent, and collaborative.

Q: What areas of AI are you most excited about right now, and why?

I’m excited about AI for social good—especially in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and sustainability. These areas have a direct impact on African AI sovereignty and communities that need it most in Africa. Seeing AI tackle real-world problems that change lives and livelihoods keeps me motivated.

Q: How can we encourage more young women to enter the AI field?

We must start early, showing girls they belong in STEAM through access, funding, investment and representation. Equally important is giving them access to practical skills and roles they can relate to. When they see women like them thriving in AI, they believe they can too.

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to women entering the AI field today?

To those that have a seat at the table, make room for others, build your network fearlessly. Stay curious, keep learning, and remember you don’t have to do it alone. There’s a global sisterhood ready to support you.

Q: What role does AI play in transforming traditional industries like logistics and manufacturing, and how are women leading that change?

AI is transforming logistics and manufacturing by turning rigid, manual operations into intelligent, adaptive systems that cut costs, reduce downtime, and refocus human intelligence on higher-value tasks. Women are leading this shift by championing ethical, human-centered AI design that ensures these innovations uplift workers and communities, not just profits. Together, we’re proving that inclusive leadership and advanced technology can redefine traditional industries for a smarter, fairer future.

Q: How does participating in WAM Morocco benefit women working in AI and tech fields?

Participating in WAM Morocco is more than attending an event — it’s stepping into a network that opens doors across the continent and beyond. Women gain access to mentors, collaborators, investors, and global platforms that amplify their work and ideas. Most importantly, it reminds every woman there that her voice, her innovations, and her leadership have a rightful place in shaping Africa’s AI and tech future.