✨ About AI & Society
AI & Society is a community-led initiative exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and the human experience. We bring together technologists, creatives, educators, researchers, citymakers and curious citizens to explore what it means to live well in an AI-shaped world.
From hands-on workshops to deep philosophical conversations, AI & Society is a space for critical dialogue, playful learning, and collaborative inquiry. Whether you’re building with AI, researching its impacts, or just curious about what’s next — you’re welcome here.
💡 Why I Started AI & Society
A note from the founder, Sophia Arkinstall
I started AI & Society in 2024 with a simple vision: to make space for meaningful, real-world conversations about artificial intelligence.
As a project manager working in smart cities, education and ESG strategy, I saw the growing gap between the speed of technological change and the depth of public understanding. I wanted to create a forum that wasn’t about hype or fear — but about people, values, design and possibility.
AI & Society is my way of bringing together everything I care about: cities, equity, innovation, ethics, learning, and community. I run it independently, alongside my full-time work, because I believe in the power of bringing diverse minds into the room — to question, co-create, and shape the future together.
Since launching, we’ve welcomed hundreds of people into the conversation — from students to CEOs, artists to engineers. What started as an idea in my notebook has grown into a vibrant network of thinkers and doers across Brisbane (and beyond).
Thanks for being part of it.
— Sophia Arkinstall
Founder, AI & Society
LinkedIn
🧭 What We Believe
- AI is not neutral – It reflects human choices, values and power structures.
- We all have a role to play – You don’t need to be an AI expert to ask important questions.
- Interdisciplinary intelligence is the future – Real insight comes from cross-pollination between fields.
- Community > hype – Real change starts with dialogue, connection and grassroots action.
🌱 Our Mission
We exist to:
- Build understanding across disciplines and sectors
- Encourage meaningful public dialogue about AI’s role in society
- Bridge the gap between emerging technologies and community wellbeing
- Ensure AI development is inclusive, transparent, and ethical
We believe the future of AI shouldn’t be left to chance — or to a handful of corporations. It should be shaped by all of us.
📆 Monthly Events on Meetup
Join us for:
- Keynote Presentations
- Interactive Workshops
- Panel Conversations
- Creative and Critical Thinking Activities
- Casual Networking with Purpose
🧠 Who Comes Along?
AI & Society welcomes people from all backgrounds, including:
- Technologists and engineers
- Business leaders and founders
- Educators, researchers, and students
- Policy thinkers and government professionals
- Creatives, designers, and artists
- Community leaders and the simply curious
No technical background required — just curiosity and a willingness to explore.
📍Where We Meet
Our events are hosted at venues where innovation and connectivity is key. Check out our events page to find all the details about each session. Each session is designed to suit the theme and foster conversation, connection and new ideas.
💬 Get Involved
AI & Society is more than just an event series — it’s a growing community. You can:
- Attend or speak at events
- Volunteer as a facilitator or co-host
- Partner or sponsor a future session
- Share your thoughts or write for us
- Help build tools, resources, and white papers
- Or simply show up and listen — that’s powerful, too
🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn
🔗 Become a member of our group on Meetup to stay in the loop, RSVP to events, and connect with like-minded people:
👉 Join us on Meetup.com
AI & Society 