
Irina Mirkina
In the global Top 50 most influential women in Tech
In the rapidly changing landscape of artificial intelligence, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Dr. Irina Mirkina. As one of the most influential figures in the international tech world, she stands at the intersection of groundbreaking innovation and global responsibility. Her expertise is globally recognized through her consistent presence in the most prestigious rankings; she is consistently counted among the top 50 women in technology worldwide and is a regular on lists of leading experts in AI ethics. Irina is a speaker and strategist who moves effortlessly between the most diverse arenas. From the influential boardrooms of multinationals to the highest diplomatic levels on UN stages: her vision is sought where complex technological issues intersect with societal challenges. Whether she is advising on the implementation of AI in the private sector or speaking about the future of digital human rights, her message is always rooted in a unique combination of profound technical knowledge and strategic insight.
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Biography
A vision for the future: The foundation of an AI pioneer
Dr. Irina Mirkina is a visionary strategist whose career is rooted in a deep conviction: artificial intelligence must serve humanity. With a unique background that combines technical expertise with insights from the international investment world, she built an impressive academic foundation. As part of the first wave of women shaping AI leadership in the private sector, she demonstrated early on that complex technological innovation and social responsibility are inextricably linked.
From Fintech to the Ocean: A Broad Track of Innovation
Her career is a succession of groundbreaking projects across various sectors, ranging from fintech to maritime transport. Irina has guided numerous organizations in their strategic AI transformation, helping to break through barriers such as market uncertainty, the 'skill gap', and siloed organizational structures. As Chief AI Officer at Fugro, she was responsible for the development of advanced solutions that contribute to a safe and livable world, applying her expertise to crucial global challenges.
Global Impact and Ethical Leadership
Irina's influence extends far beyond the commercial sector. As the former AI Lead for the Office of Innovation at UNICEF, she was the driving force behind the protection of children's rights within AI systems. Her expertise is recognized worldwide by institutions such as the European Commission and the Digital Public Goods Alliance. For her tireless commitment to responsible AI and ethics, she has been internationally honored and included in the prestigious list of 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics™ and the Inspired Minds Top 65 Most Influential Women 2023.
A global stage for AI for Good
As one of the top 50 women in technology worldwide, Dr. Mirkina is a sought-after speaker on the most influential stages around the world. She has shared her insights at renowned conferences such as World Summit AI, UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics, AI for Good Global Summit, and various UN summits. In addition to her appearances, she actively promotes diversity through The AI Forward Alliance (TAIFA) and as a mentor for Girls in Tech. Whether speaking for NGOs, private foundations, or at international forums; Irina brings a sharp, human-centered vision of the AI revolution that inspires every audience.
Themes
Responsible AI & Ethics
Irina is a global authority on responsible artificial intelligence and the development of ethical frameworks. She advises organizations on how to implement innovative AI solutions that are not only efficient but also transparent, fair, and aligned with international standards for human rights.
AI Strategy & Implementation
With her experience in both academia and the private sector, Irina helps companies bridge the gap between vision and practice. She provides in-depth insights into overcoming strategic challenges, such as the 'skill gap', organizational silos, and managing risks in an uncertain market.
AI for Social Good & Sustainability
Through her work at the UN and UNICEF, Irina possesses unique expertise in leveraging technology for global social issues. She demonstrates how AI can be a driving force behind positive change, from protecting children's rights to creating a safer and more livable physical world.
Inclusive Leadership in Tech
As a pioneer and role model, Irina tirelessly advocates for diversity and the representation of women in the tech sector. She shares powerful insights on how inclusive teams lead to better innovations and how organizations can build an ecosystem where diverse talent in AI can thrive.
Why Irina
Proven Strategic Track Record
Irina is not a theoretician; she has worked on the ground in sectors ranging from fintech to the maritime industry. She understands the reality of the boardroom: market uncertainty, organizational silos, and the challenges of digital transformation. Her advice is therefore immediately applicable for leaders who want not only to understand AI but also to implement it successfully.
Global Authority with UN Experience
With Irina, you bring in a speaker of world stature who has advised at the highest diplomatic levels. Her insights on international standards and global cooperation in the field of AI have been shaped on stages of the United Nations and the European Commission. She offers a macro perspective that is essential for organizations looking to see beyond the borders of their own sector.
Unique Bridge Between Technology and Ethics
While many speakers limit themselves to either the technical side or the ethical side of AI, Irina flawlessly masters both worlds. Her experience as Chief AI Scientist combined with her work for UNICEF enables her to translate complex algorithms into their actual impact on humanity. This makes her presentations profound, honest, and extremely credible.
Inspirational Figure for Diversity
As one of the 'Top 50 Women in Tech' worldwide, Irina is a powerful role model that embodies the necessity of inclusivity in the tech sector. Her passion for empowering women and minorities in AI is infectious and adds an extra layer of social urgency to her talks. She inspires the audience to look beyond the code and invest in the human capital behind the technology.
Talks
AI Strategy with Vision, Passion, and Value
60 to 120 minutesStrategic Vision: The Foundation of AI
In a rapidly transforming world, a clear compass is essential. Dr. Irina Mirkina teaches you how to define an AI vision that seamlessly aligns with your mission and values. You will discover how to transform AI from an abstract concept into a powerful strategic narrative that convinces stakeholders and guides every decision.
From Roadmap to Impact: Breaking Down Barriers
A vision only gains value through execution. Irina shares how to build a robust roadmap, set the right priorities, and effectively break down common technical and organizational barriers. You will learn how to not only implement AI projects but also make the results measurable for both business and society.
Culture and Edge: The Human Acceleration
True differentiation arises where technology and human creativity come together. In this section, Irina focuses on creating an innovative culture and motivating teams for lasting success. By placing ethics and responsibility at the center, you build a sustainable competitive advantage that goes beyond mere efficiency.
Responsible AI Journey: From Silos to Impact
60 to 120 minutesEthics as Compass: Defining Impact
AI offers unprecedented opportunities, but also poses risks to privacy and human rights. Dr. Irina Mirkina teaches you how to define an 'AI Impact' strategy that is fully aligned with your core values. You will discover how to translate ethics into a practical foundation, enabling you to build technological solutions that are not only effective but also contribute to the well-being of society and the planet.
Breaking Down Barriers: An Inclusive Ecosystem
One of the biggest obstacles to successful AI is fragmentation. In this section, Irina discusses how to break down data, knowledge, and cultural silos within your organization. You will learn how to create a collaborative and inclusive AI ecosystem where different disciplines come together, unlocking the true value of artificial intelligence.
Measurable Results: Evidence and Reporting
The impact of AI must be tangible. Irina provides concrete frameworks and best practices to measure and improve the ethical, social, and ecological effects of your AI solutions. Participants learn how to communicate these results transparently to stakeholders, thereby not only proving the value of their innovations but also gaining the market's trust.
Leadership in the age of AI: Empowering People, Culture, and Change
60 to 120 minutesHuman Capital: AI Literacy and Mindset
Effective leadership in the AI era starts with empowering your team. Dr. Irina Mirkina shows how to increase 'AI literacy' within your organization and foster a mindset of continuous growth. You will learn how to build a diverse and inclusive workforce that is not only ready for the technology of tomorrow but also embraces it confidently.
Culture of Trust: Innovation through Connection
Technology flourishes only in a culture based on trust and collaboration. In this part, you will discover how to align your organizational culture with your technological ambitions. Irina shares insights on how to create a safe environment where innovation naturally occurs and how to embed your company’s values in every digital transition.
The Leader as Navigator: Strategy and Decision-Making
AI offers leaders new tools to enhance their own effectiveness. Irina discusses how to leverage artificial intelligence to sharpen decision-making, improve communication, and increase your influence. You will learn how to adapt your leadership style and strategy to the new reality, enabling you to lead change with determination and vision.
AI Beyond Borders: Ethical Innovation in a Connected World
60 to 120 minutesEthical Design in a Global Context
AI does not stop at national borders, and neither does the responsibility it entails. Dr. Irina Mirkina discusses how to integrate ethical principles into the entire process from design to rollout. You will learn how to proactively manage potential risks and how to develop AI solutions that are globally viable by considering diverse values, needs, and expectations.
Borderless Innovation and Cultural Adaptation
Successful AI solutions require an understanding of the cultural, social, and legal differences between regions. Irina shares her unique experiences with international collaboration and demonstrates how to adapt technology to local contexts without losing the global vision. You will discover how to navigate across borders and domains to create innovations that are universally relevant and locally effective.
Supply Chain Transparency and Collective Impact
Innovation with AI has implications for the entire value chain, from intellectual property to employment and sustainability. In this section, Irina teaches you how to monitor and evaluate the impact of AI across sectors. By fostering a culture of trust and transparency, you will learn how to engage diverse stakeholders and partners in an innovation process that lets responsibility and progress go hand in hand.
Reviews
“Colleagues have been raving about the presentation afterwards!”
“Informative and engaging, and although I thought I was up to speed on AI, brought in many new insights.”
“Thank you very much for such enlightening and engaging presentations today! We are certain that this will be a catalyst for more conversations on AI and our role in the ecosystem."”
“Really informative and the hour flew by.”
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