Filipino Whiz Kid Creates AI Platform to Preserve Languages Nearing Extinction

“Hello! My name is Anna Mae Lamentillo, and I am proud to hail from the Philippines, a nation rich in cultural diversity and natural wonders,” shares Anna Mae, the dynamic founder and Chief Future Officer of Build Initiative Foundation. Speaking at IMPACT-WB24X at George Washington University, she highlights her roots in the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group, underscoring the unique challenges faced by non-English speakers in leveraging modern technologies.

Driven by a mission to bridge the digital divide, Anna Mae has pioneered Night Owl GPT, an AI-powered platform dedicated to preserving and promoting indigenous languages on the brink of extinction. This tool does more than translate; it provides non-English speakers access to the benefits and opportunities AI offers.

“By enabling communication in local dialects, we aim to empower marginalized communities and prevent them from being left behind in the digital age,” Anna Mae explains. Night Owl GPT supports major Filipino languages like Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano, with plans to expand to all 170 languages spoken across the Philippines.

Beyond translation, Night Owl GPT integrates cultural insights into its communications, ensuring inclusivity and understanding for Filipinos regardless of their location. This initiative is vital in narrowing the gap between the digitally connected and disconnected, promoting social equity through technology.

“Night Owl GPT will integrate voice and text communication with essential cultural insights, ensuring that every Filipino, no matter how remote their location, can be heard and understood.” Lamentillo noted.

Get to know more about Build Initiative Foundation at: https://www.buildinitiative.foundation