摘要：The service desk at the venue for the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women in Beijing, capital of China, October 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinh

The service desk at the venue for the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women in Beijing, capital of China, October 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

By Kitty Fok

China hosted the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women from Monday to Tuesday in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered the keynote address calling for greater participation of women in national and global decision-making. He emphasized the need to "broaden the channels for women to participate in political and decision-making and promote women's broad participation in national and social governance."

A timely message for an AI-driven era

This meeting took place at a defining moment when artificial intelligence (AI) and data technologies are transforming economies, education and public services. When women participate fully in policy, design and leadership, technology becomes more inclusive and serves social needs. The meeting also encouraged practical cooperation through skills programs, leadership exchanges and initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs, especially in developing regions.

China's leadership underscored two key messages. First, women's advancement and national development move forward together – a theme echoed throughout the discussions. Second, continued collaboration with global partners will be vital to expanding access to training, innovation and inclusive opportunities in the years ahead.

Women's advancement in China's industries

From my experience in the technology sector, I have seen remarkable progress. Ten years ago, few women held senior roles in product or data management. Today, many organizations recognize diversity as essential to creativity and competitiveness. In the fast-paced digital economy, teams with different perspectives are stronger and more adaptable. Studies also show more women studying and working in technology, strengthening the leadership pipeline for the future.

My own journey reflects this evolution and fuels my continued advocacy for women in technology. This progress fills me with pride and a sense of duty to champion equal opportunities and mentor the next generation of innovators.

Early in my career, I was often the only woman in the room at technology analyst briefings. Last month, I spoke at a women-focused track titled "Her Power, Love & AI" during a major technology company's conference in the city of Hangzhou. The session drew more than 500 women discussing how women can shape the future of AI. The energy and determination in that room showed how far we have come from questioning whether women belong in tech to exploring how we lead the next wave of transformation.

A plenary meeting of the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women is held in Beijing, capital of China, October 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

From principles to action: Three ideas for a human-centered AI future

At that event, I shared three simple ideas on how to build a more human-centered approach to AI and innovation: Make AI a partner. Let AI handle efficiency but ensure people set the goals and values. In addition, win small and win real. Apply AI in small, meaningful ways to save time, reduce mistakes and build confidence. Moreover, balance is a rhythm. Protect time for reflection, delegate repetitive tasks to AI and invest in relationships and communities.

These ideas remind us that technology is not just about systems; it is about people. Women's empathy and insight can make AI more ethical, inclusive and impactful for society.

Women's voices matter in governance and technology. Women's perspectives bring balance and foresight to how technology and policy evolve. When women help make decisions, the results are often more equitable, sustainable and thoughtful. In AI development, inclusion is not an afterthought; it is the foundation that ensures progress benefits everyone.

China's focus on empowering women through innovation and digital participation creates space for new opportunities. By strengthening skills, confidence and collaboration, women can play a leading role in shaping how AI grows – a future where technology supports human creativity and potential.

Looking ahead, empowering women is about more than equality; it is about building a smarter, fairer, and more compassionate digital world. Through education, cooperation and leadership, women will not only participate in the AI era but help define its values. Together, we can ensure that technology advances with empathy, purpose and shared opportunities for all.

Kitty Fok, the managing director of IDC China and President of Women's Creativity Club.

来源：中国网一点号