Navigating the realities of generative AI
GENERATIVE AI is no longer just a buzzword; it is fast becoming an integral part of our daily lives, reshaping industries and redefining the future of work. These rapid technological developments can sometimes feel out of reach and overwhelming for many segments of society.
To address this, Connected Women, in partnership with GCash, the country’s leading finance app, has launched the pioneering program Elevate GAIL (Generative AI Learning). This initiative is designed for women freelancers, entrepreneurs and professionals who want to take advantage of generative artificial intelligence technologies and tools for their businesses and careers. Through this partnership, scholarships will be provided to 100 women, enabling them to participate in this empowering training program.
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During the Elevate GAIL Program launch on April 17, Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba, of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Competitiveness and Innovation Group, spoke of their recent Memorandum of Understanding with Connected Women, “We acknowledge the transformative power of innovation and the vital role of women in driving technological advancement. Our partnership with Connected Women solidifies our commitment to promoting responsible AI adoption and digital transformation in the Philippines.”
Impact of GenAI
As for the potential for GenAI disruption, it’s substantial. GenAI is poised to transform the freelancing landscape by automating tasks that were once manual, leading to a shift in the types of jobs that are in demand. For instance, there has been a reported 21 percent decrease in job posts for automation-prone jobs related to writing and coding after the introduction of technologies like ChatGPT.
Image-generating AI technologies have also led to a 17 percent decrease in job posts related to image creation. This indicates a significant impact on the demand for certain types of freelance work, highlighting the need for freelancers to adapt and upskill to stay competitive in the evolving digital economy.
The freelance market has seen remarkable growth in the Philippines, with the country being recognized as one of the fastest-growing markets globally. A report by Payoneer highlights that Filipino freelancers are contributing significantly to the economy, with a 35 percent growth in freelance earnings. This vibrant demographic of freelancers, with a majority ages between 21 and 35 years old, is particularly adaptable to technological shifts, making the Philippines an ideal environment for GenAI integration.
Organizations like Connected Women and GCash recognize this shift and are taking steps to equip Filipina freelancers, MSMEs and professionals with the skills needed to thrive in the GenAI era. By providing knowledge and practical skills in GenAI, they are helping to ensure that the freelancing community can leverage these new technologies for their benefit, rather than being displaced by them.
Sara Venturina, GCash chief data officer, said, “With the rise of the gig economy and remote work, more freelancers are embracing the potential of Gen AI to enhance their productivity, creativity, and earning potential. However, access has remained a significant challenge for many talented individuals. Here is where our partnership with Connected Women comes into play — by combining the resources and expertise of both organizations, we aim to create a comprehensive digital ecosystem that empowers women in the field of Gen AI, which will help facilitate women’s financial progress.”
Why women?
As of 2023, women constitute only 14 percent of tech leaders, and only 22 percent of AI professionals globally are women. Bringing more diversity into the technology and AI sector is key to designing solutions that address wide-ranging societal needs and enhancing accessibility, health care, education and environmental efforts across the Philippines.
“Empowering women with skills for emerging technologies, such as AI, is not just about professional growth,” said Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio. “It’s about creating a more diverse and inclusive industry. GCash was our first company in mind when we were brainstorming this program. Through this, we aim to prepare women for the changing landscape of work and the inevitable disruption of AI.”
Connected Women is looking for more partners, like GCash, to invest in women and prepare them for the future of work. Email us at [email protected]