Microsoft Courts Diverse Tech Talent, addresses AI Concerns at AfroTech
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Microsoft CEO of AI, Mustafa Suleyman, made a striking debut at AfroTech this year, signaling a concerted effort to attract diverse talent and reshape the company’s image as a leader in accessible, inclusive technology.the event, a focal point for Black innovators and technologists, saw Microsoft actively seeking individuals who can “challenge and bring a different viewpoint” as it builds its own AI models and strives for greater self-sufficiency.
Suleyman emphasized his commitment to fostering a risk-taking surroundings within Microsoft. “My job is to create the air cover for everybody here to be more radical than they otherwise could be,” he stated, adding that he aims to provide ”a little bit of space so that people can take risks.”
The company’s recent advancements in generative AI, including a top 10 ranking on LMArena for its text-to-image model, are already beginning to shift perceptions of Microsoft among younger audiences, Suleyman noted. He also highlighted the importance of dismantling traditional barriers to entry in the tech industry, referencing his own background with a philosophy degree.
“I love what Black TechXcellence represents: evolution and inclusivity-where technology is truly accessible to everyone,” Suleyman said. He encouraged attendees to embrace technology as a malleable tool, stating, “It’s like a clay that everyone has access to and anyone can sculpt.” He urged swift engagement, believing that early adoption will empower individuals to “co-op, take control, and lead it.”
However,the conversation wasn’t solely focused on AI’s potential. Both Suleyman and Black TechXcellence founder, Kimberly Yowman, voiced concerns about the dangers of over-reliance on artificial intelligence. Yowman cautioned against allowing “the tool [to] become the carpenter,” while Suleyman expressed anxiety about the implications of AI exceeding human intelligence. ”That makes me very anxious because I don’t realy know how you control or rely on somthing that is infinitely more powerful,” he admitted. He stressed the necessity of developing AI “in service of humanity,” ensuring it remains “a humanist consumer intelligence.”
The event culminated in a panel discussion addressing the critical underrepresentation of Black women in tech.Topicals founder and CEO, olamide Olowe, and Jodie Taylor underscored the importance of bold ambition and creating opportunities for others.”If only one percent of us are in these boardrooms, we have to make sure we’re prosperous so that more women can follow behind,” Olowe stated, emphasizing the need to not just occupy space, but actively shape it.
