Making Space in Tech & AI
Who gets to shape the technologies that shape our future?
Dr Ruwangi Fernando is an AI specialist, educator, speaker and equity advocate whose work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, responsible innovation, STEM inclusion and future-focused education. Through her leadership roles with the Australian Computer Society, Victoria University, STEM Sisters, Future Me and national speaking engagements, she has contributed to building AI literacy and critical technology awareness among students, teachers, women, girls and culturally diverse communities.
In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, the ability to think critically, question technology, imagine creatively, and act ethically has never been more important. Dr Fernando’s work focuses on helping learners move beyond simply using technology to understanding, questioning, and shaping it.
Through keynote presentations, workshops, school programs, digital resources, and public engagement initiatives, she has supported conversations around ethical AI, algorithmic bias, creativity, digital inclusion, and learner agency. Her work particularly focuses on empowering girls, culturally diverse learners, and underrepresented communities to see themselves as creators, innovators, and decision-makers in the future of technology.
Through initiatives such as Future Me, she has also developed accessible storytelling-based digital resources exploring AI, quantum technologies, and future careers in ways that inspire curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking among young learners.
From classrooms and community programs to national panels and public engagement initiatives, Dr Fernando’s work contributes to building a more inclusive, creative, and critically informed future for AI and education.
Founder and Exe Director
ACS National – AI Technology Advancement Committee Member
ACS Victoria – Chair Diversity and Inclusion Committee
Future Me Digital Storybooks
Inspiring Young Minds to Imagine, Question and Create
Through the Future Me initiative, Dr Ruwangi Fernando has developed a growing collection of accessible digital storybooks designed to help young learners explore emerging technologies, future careers, and responsible innovation through storytelling.
Covering themes such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, creativity, inclusion, and problem-solving, these books encourage children, especially girls and culturally diverse learners, to see themselves not only as users of technology but as future creators, innovators, and critical thinkers.
To date, the Future Me initiative has engaged more than 7,000 children through STEM learning activities, while the digital storybook series has reached over 15,000 young readers, helping spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in STEM and emerging technologies
Who’s in the Algorithm? Why Your Voice Matters in Tech
The talk empowers audiences—especially young people and under-represented groups—to see themselves as active shapers of technology, not just its users, and highlights why inclusive participation is essential for building fair, transparent, and human-centred AI systems.
The Carbon Footprint of Our Prompts
The talk connects digital actions to real-world sustainability, encouraging individuals, educators, and organisations to adopt mindful AI use, energy-efficient technologies, and green innovation practices.
Speaking Engagements and Conversations
Dr Ruwangi Fernando regularly speaks at schools, universities, industry events, leadership forums, and national conferences on topics including artificial intelligence, ethical innovation, digital inclusion, creativity, and the future of education. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and mentoring initiatives, she encourages young people, particularly girls and culturally diverse learners, to think critically about technology, embrace curiosity and creativity, and recognise their potential to shape the future of AI and innovation.
How AI Shaping (and Erasing ) our Stories 2025 – Victoria University
Speaker – Al Equity and Ethics – An Intersectional Lens 2026
Panel Speaker –AI in Education: Prospects and Limits – Australian Parents Council 2024
Panel Speaker –Designing the World of Tomorrow (Cross-Industry) -Victorian Women Lawyers 2024
Let’s Talk: Women in STEM was a celebration of IWD – Study Australia 2024
Engagements, Conversations and Community Impact
Through school programs, keynote presentations, workshops, mentoring, industry panels, and community initiatives, Dr Ruwangi Fernando is helping the next generation navigate the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Her engagements focus on empowering young people, especially girls and culturally diverse learners, to build confidence, think critically, question technology, embrace creativity, and see themselves as future innovators, ethical leaders, and creators of technology, not just consumers of it.
Let’s Create Change Together
Dr Ruwangi Fernando is committed to advancing AI-driven innovation, fostering diversity in STEM, and shaping ethical and inclusive workforce solutions. Whether you’re interested in speaking engagements, consulting, media collaborations, or strategic partnerships, she welcomes the opportunity to work with individuals, organisations, and industry leaders to drive meaningful impact.
Get in touch today and be part of the movement for a more inclusive, sustainable, and tech-driven future
- Book Dr Fernando for Speaking & Thought Leadership
Are you looking for a powerful, engaging speaker for your next conference, panel discussion, or corporate event? - Partner on AI, Diversity & Sustainability Projects
Are you looking for an AI specialist, diversity consultant, or thought leader to help design and implement inclusive tech solutions, workforce equity programs, or sustainability initiatives? - Media & Press Inquiries
Are you looking to feature Dr Ruwangi Fernando in a TV interview, podcast, or digital publication? - Collaborate with STEM Sisters or iSTEM Co.
Are you passionate about empowering women of colour in STEM through mentorship, leadership, and career development?