In a world racing towards AI innovation, how do we make sure we don’t leave humanity behind?
In Episode 54 of the AI Six Podcast, I speak with Maria Axente, Responsible AI Lead at PwC UK and one of the leading voices globally on AI governance and ethics. What follows is not just a conversation—it’s a deep dive into how we navigate AI’s promise and peril.
AI isn’t just a tech problem
Maria opens with a crucial point: the development and deployment of AI must involve more than engineers and coders. It needs to include policymakers, ethicists, educators, and the public. Her call for a “whole of society” approach reminds us that building trustworthy AI isn’t just about smart algorithms—it’s about shared values.
From Passion to Purpose: Maria’s Journey
Maria shares her professional path, including her early days working with startups and tech companies, and how she was drawn toward the moral implications of emerging technologies. Her work now focuses on operationalising ethics inside one of the world’s largest professional services networks.
The Global View: From the EU AI Act to the UN Summit
One of the most fascinating parts of the episode is Maria’s analysis of regulatory landscapes. She explores the EU AI Act, what it means for organizations, and why governance frameworks are crucial for sustainable innovation.
She also touches on her participation at the UN AI for Good Summit, where cross-border cooperation is at the top of the agenda.
How Do We “Do” Responsible AI?
It’s one thing to talk about responsible AI. It’s another to build it. Maria offers practical advice for businesses:
- Start with a clear purpose behind your AI use cases.
- Build cross-functional teams that include legal, compliance, and ethics.
- Create internal policies for transparency, accountability, and bias mitigation.
The Urgency of Now
Throughout the conversation, there’s a sense of urgency. We’re at a pivotal moment in AI development, and Maria is clear: “If we don’t act now, we risk losing control.”
But she also leaves us with hope—AI can be a powerful tool for good, if we choose to design it that way.
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About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience in training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
