Using AI to Solve Bias and Preserve Ancestral Knowledge with Malik Afegbua

What if the next frontier of artificial intelligence wasn't about the future but about reclaiming the past? Nigerian artist, filmmaker, and creative technologist Malik Afegbua became a global conversation-changer when his viral "Elder Series"—AI-generated images of stylish seniors on a fashion runway—highlighted the deep-seated biases in AI training data, forcing us to confront the lack of representation in our digital future.​

​In this powerful episode, Malik argues that the solution to AI’s bias lies in intentional storytelling and leveraging technology to connect directly with the wisdom of the past. He introduces the revolutionary concept of creating digital twins of our ancestors, which would enable future generations to engage with their heritage and access "credible knowledge from our ancestors”.

​Malik and host Eric Olander discuss how African creatives are intentionally shaping AI, how understanding historical context is crucial for future projections, and why embracing technology can be the most powerful way to preserve cultural legacy for a better tomorrow.

What you'll hear in this episode:

Why the quality of AI's outputs depends entirely on challenging its biased inputs, and the role of African creatives in that process.

​The groundbreaking vision of creating 'digital twins' to represent and learn from ancestral knowledge in a modern context.

​How preserving African histories through technology is helping to build an aspirational future not one that is suppressed or sad.

​Why understanding historical timelines is crucial for revealing patterns that inform our decisions today.

​Malik’s advice on how a positive mindset and intentional stories can empower change without needing external permission.

Chapters:

00:00 The Rise of AI in Daily Life

03:04 Bias and Representation in AI

05:53 The Role of African Creatives in AI

09:02 Challenges of Access and Ownership in AI

12:03 Preserving African Histories through Technology

17:46 Reimagining the Future with AI

20:56 Empowering Change through Technology

About Malik Afegbua:

Malik Afegbua is a Nigerian artist and the CEO of Slickcity Media, in Lagos, Nigeria. He weaves magic across film, VR, and design. At Slickcity Media, he crafts documentaries, commercials, and immersive VR experiences, pushing boundaries and blending tradition with innovative tech like VR and AI art.

His viral "The Elder Series" exemplifies his genius. Using AI, he reimagined seniors in vibrant fashion shows, sparking a global dialogue about inclusivity and challenging ageism. But Malik's impact extends beyond visuals. He is a champion for social change and founded C.E.L.S. to empower Nigerian youth through education and mentorship.

He is a cultural guardian, collaborating with Meta to preserve African heritage through VR documentaries. His expertise in AI design shines through collaborations with Marvel Studios, Cadbury, Glenfiddich, IBM, and more. His AI art has graced platforms like Cannes and the Mozambique Ministry of Tourism.

At Slickcity Media, Malik leads the charge, translating ideas into captivating content across platforms. He harnesses the power of AI to enhance storytelling and deliver innovative narratives, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Follow Malik Afegbua on:

Instagram: @slickcityceo⁠

LinkedIn: @malik-afegbua

Find out more about ‘The Elder Series’ here: https://elderseries.carrd.co

Find out more about Salzburg Global here: https://www.salzburgglobal.org