Ottawa Responsible AI Talks Debuts with Call for Ethical, Community-Centered AI Ottawa
The Ottawa Responsible AI Hub launched its inaugural Ottawa Responsible AI Talks at Incubator13, bringing together policymakers, technologists, academics, and community members to chart a path for artificial intelligence that advances equity and the public good.
“AI is not neutral. These systems are powerful, and when responsibility is absent, technology does not just fail us, it can harm us,” said Somto Mbelu, Program Lead at the Hub, during his keynote address. He urged Ottawa to lead with intent: “The future of AI will not be written by algorithms alone. It will be written by us, all of us in this room, and in rooms like this one.”
The Ottawa Responsible AI Talks is a new quarterly event series created by the Hub to foster dialogue between policymakers, researchers, technologists, and community voices. Each edition explores how AI can be governed for equity, community impact, and the public good.
Speakers showcased the diverse ways responsible AI can be built. Remsy Schmilimskyintroduced Orbit, an open-source platform for regulated sectors, noting: “If we don’t design for sovereignty and data privacy from the start, then we are only borrowing trust, and that trust will eventually run out.” Neil Kothary presented The Great Internet Mess, a child safety app, warning: “Children are growing up in an online world we barely understand ourselves. Giving families the tools to spot dangers isn’t optional, it is essential.” Luc Lalande highlighted the Creative AI with Seniors initiative, adding: “When seniors discover they can create art with AI, it’s not just about technology. It’s about dignity, confidence, and connection.”
Moderated by Brett Tackaberry of Ottawa Civic Tech, panel discussions raised urgent themes around regulation, equity, child safety, and the need for institutions to certify AI systems before release.
Mbelu closed with a reminder of the Hub’s mission: “Building responsible AI is not just about writing better code. It is about listening to seniors who fear exclusion, to youth who question AI’s impact on their future, and to newcomers who feel unseen by hiring algorithms.”
The Hub also announced its flagship event, the Ottawa Responsible AI Summit, to be held in November 2025 at Bayview Yards. The Summit will convene global voices to advance inclusive, equitable, and accountable AI.
The Ottawa Responsible AI Hub is a civil society and community-driven nonprofit that ensures AI is developed and used in ways that promote equity, transparency, and the public good. Its programs include AI for All, Bias Shield, and the Digital Truth Lab.