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Angie Abdilla
Chief Executive Officer at Old Ways, New
Professional Background
Professor Angie Abdilla is a celebrated Palawa (Trawlwoolway) woman, and an influential figure in Australia's intersection of Indigenous cultural knowledge and advanced technologies, including robotics and artificial intelligence. As the Chief Executive Officer at Old Ways, New, Angie leads a visionary organization dedicated to collaborating with Indigenous cultural knowledge custodians to innovatively design services, places, and experiences that honor and incorporate traditional wisdom. Her work exemplifies the perfect blend of ancestral knowledge and modern technological advancements, setting a precedence for ethical approaches to cultural data in the digital age.
Angie has a profound commitment to sharing Indigenous perspectives on emerging technologies. She presented her extensive research at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, contributing significantly to international conversations surrounding Indigenous Knowledge Systems, their role in artificial intelligence, and robotics. Furthermore, her co-edited publication, "Decolonising the Digital: Technology as Cultural Practice," stands as an essential read for anyone interested in the ethics and practices at the intersection of culture and technology.
A co-founder of the international Indigenous Protocols and Artificial Intelligence working group (IP AI), Angie has taken significant strides in establishing frameworks for how Indigenous knowledge can inform AI and technological development respectfully. She serves as an Advisor for the CSIRO's Indigenous STEM Academy, furthering her impact on the next generation of Indigenous talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Education and Achievements
Angie Abdilla's academic journey laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Media Arts, and Production from the University of Technology Sydney, where she developed a keen understanding of media practices and storytelling techniques essential for communicating complex Indigenous narratives in contemporary contexts. Following this, she pursued post-graduate studies in Documentary Production at the prestigious Australian Film Television and Radio School, solidifying her skills in both visual storytelling and the representation of Indigenous voices in media.
Throughout her career, Angie has held numerous prestigious positions, including her role as a lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney, where she taught Futuring methodologies and Human/Technology inter-Relations. Her innovative teaching methods were instrumental in preparing students for the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and its ethical implications.
Moreover, Angie has provided her expertise on various advisory boards, including the Indigenous Girls’ STEM Academy Advisory Group at CSIRO. As a committed advocate for Indigenous rights and representation, she has given keynote presentations at notable institutions such as the Foundation for Young Australians and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences. Angie’s insights and experiences have also been shared through multiple platforms as a commentator on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and as a festival presenter at Vivid Sydney, showcasing her engaging ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Achievements
Professor Angie Abdilla’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the fields of technology and Indigenous knowledge. Her pioneering work in establishing the Indigenous Protocols and Artificial Intelligence working group has garnered international recognition, and her published research continues to influence academic and technological discussions.
As a former Associate Consultant for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and an Associate at the United Nations, Angie's expertise has reached a global audience, advocating for Indigenous rights and representation in broader international dialogues. Her prior experience as the Director and Innovations and Programs Manager at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE) further showcases her commitment to elevating Indigenous voices and experiences at every level of society.
In addition to her numerous professional roles, Angie’s dedication to community service and education reflects her belief in empowering future generations. Her engagement with institutions that promote Indigenous students in STEM disciplines is a testament to her vision of a future where Indigenous knowledge and expertise coexist with technological advancements, fostering innovation that respects cultural heritage.
In recognition of her significant contributions, Angie has been honored with various accolades and serves as a Fellow at the Ethics Centre, where she engages in critical discussions on ethics in technology, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are included in such conversations. Her commitment to ethical practices not only enhances her work at Old Ways, New but also solidifies her position as a thought leader in the contemporary discourse on culture, technology, and ethics.
In conclusion, Professor Angie Abdilla stands as a pioneering figure in the integration of Indigenous cultural knowledge with advanced technologies. Her impressive background, marked by extensive research and impactful leadership roles, places her at the forefront of contemporary discussions on ethics, identity, and the future of technology in relation to Indigenous peoples and their intellectual heritage. Through her work, Angie inspires a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders committed to creating a harmonious relationship between traditional knowledge and modern technological advances.