Digital Natives Academy (DNA) is excited to announce that its founder, Potaua Biasiny-Tule (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāi Tūhoe, Niue), has been invited to join UNESCO’s newly established High-Level Expert Group on Ecosystem-Level Transformation (HILEG-ELT) in Artificial Intelligence (AI). This distinguished group will address critical global challenges in AI governance and policy, working to create equitable and inclusive approaches for advancing AI technologies in the public interest.

The HILEG-ELT convenes world-leading experts to explore ways to redesign AI research and innovation ecosystems with a focus on social good, tackling issues such as digital inequity and the concentration of technological power. Potaua Biasiny-Tule’s appointment will ensure a unique Māori perspective on AI ethics, digital equity, and the role of Indigenous knowledge systems in global tech governance. Through this initiative, DNA remains dedicated to promoting digital wellbeing, equitable access, and education pathways in Aotearoa’s tech landscape. This follows on from the research DNA collaborated on in 2023 with the Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s Crown Institute for data science and artificial intelligence.

Reflecting on his appointment, Potaua Biasiny-Tule stated, “Indigenous perspectives are integral to AI development is crucial for creating technologies that respect and reflect the diversity of our global indigenous communities. I look forward to bringing Māori insights to this important dialogue and work towards AI solutions that reflect our values which benefit all.”

As part of the group, Potaua will contribute to exploring innovative policy and governance solutions that address underlying structural inequalities in AI development. His voice will be instrumental in advocating for public-interest-driven AI that reflects the needs of diverse communities, focusing on how technology can serve as a positive force for social and cultural sustainability.

Digital Natives Academy’s involvement with HILEG-ELT reinforces its mission to empower the next generation of rangatahi through digital education and innovation. This invitation from UNESCO highlights DNA’s growing impact on the global stage, as well as its commitment to fostering an inclusive tech sector that respects and elevates Indigenous perspectives.