ABOUT ME

Being a victim isn’t in my nature

You might wonder why a fourteen-year-old girl would start a website discussing the potential risks of AI in our society. Let me take you back to the beginning.

AI is an exciting and rapidly evolving technology. Recently, the discussion has mostly centered around its positive aspects and concerns about future job displacement. However, AI is far from new, and there’s a lot more to it than what’s commonly portrayed
in the media or taught in schools. This realization led me to the importance of self-education.

A bit about myself: On October 20, 2023, some male classmates from my school created deepfakes using photos of sophomore girls, including me. This incident opened my eyes to the dark side of AI. The initial weeks were critical—I had to figure out how to protect
my image, which could affect my academic future, professional growth, and social reputation, all while managing my emotional state. It was a daunting task. I learned that my school lacked AI policies for protection. My state had no relevant laws to turn to,
and the school did little to address the issue. Only one boy was suspended for a day, and life at school continued as usual. I was offered counseling and expected to move on.

But being a victim isn’t in my nature. I’m not one to let things go or pretend everything is okay. I first tried reasoning with the school administration, pointing out the existing code of conduct and cyber harassment policies they could enforce. They said
they needed a law, so I resolved to help them get one.

In the process of advocating and pushing for legislation to protect women and children, I formed a deep connection with AI. I spent months traveling to Washington, D.C., with my mom, discussing the dangers of AI with congressmen and congresswomen, senators,
lawyers, and even meeting with the current administration and the general counsels of organizations focused on protecting women and children. A highlight was an invitation to the State of the Union by Congressman Kean Jr. However, I never sought this fame,
nor do I want to be known for this issue, but someone has to stand up for women and children. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that often it will be women and children themselves seeking justice and recognition of the need for change.

I also learned that if you speak loudly enough, you will be heard. I was just 14 at the time (I’m 15 now) and began to speak unapologetically. Advocating for women and children ignited a passion within me. I knew I was helping make AI a safer topic for women
by advocating for these laws and speaking out about how I feel and how to protect oneself. This is how I’ve taken control of this unfortunate situation.

I refuse to be a pawn or let someone else dictate my future. Instead, I believe my future is my responsibility. So here I am. If you ever feel unheard, speak louder and do not allow anyone to ignore you.