Join AI Educator Dr. Avriel Epps (Author, A Kids Book About AI Bias) and their six-year-old son Geronimo (Nemo) for a conversation about Artificial Intelligence, digital literacy, and how we can shape a fair, accessible future for children growing up in the digital age. Modeled after their own conversations about tech and AI, this talk will offer a glimpse into children’s perspectives on technology, and insight into how parents and educators can foster safe and interactive learning online.

Dr. Avriel Epps (she/they), a Black and Jewish Civic Science Postdoctoral Fellow at Cornell University’s CATLab, holds a Ph.D. in Human Development from Harvard University and an S.M. in Data Science from Harvard’s School of Engineering. A scholar and advocate, Avriel’s research focuses on the intersections of algorithmic bias and identity development across racial, gender, and sociopolitical spectra. She aims to understand the complex ways that algorithm design and computer-mediated social expectations—often communicated through artificial intelligence systems—impact the beliefs, behaviors, and health of developing humans. As co-founder of AI4Abolition, she is dedicated to building collective power with and around AI through open-source tools and AI literacy programs in marginalized communities. Avriel has been recognized and supported by The Ford Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, Roddenberry Foundation, and National Center on Race and Digital Justice among many others. Her work is featured in both scientific journals and popular outlets, including The Atlantic and the Emmy-nominated PBS documentary "TikTok, Boom." She speaks to an audience of over 70k followers on her Instagram and TikTok, with short form videos garnering over 25 million views. She is the author of A Kids Book About AI Bias.

Geronimo (who usually goes by Nemo) is a six-year-old artist, jokester, and professional kindergartner based in Los Angeles. He currently works at his elementary school, where he has held several esteemed positions including Calendar Helper, Line Leader, and Bathroom Monitor—roles that have honed his leadership skills and impeccable sense of timing.

In 2022, Nemo debuted his first solo art show, and he plans to continue making “cool stuff” with crayons, cardboard, and occasionally, his mom’s office supplies. Most recently, he served as co-editor for A Kid’s Book About AI Bias, written by his mom, which gave him a chance to help shape how big ideas get translated for young minds like his. When he grows up, he plans to be an artist, but he’s open to also being a scientist, performer, or snack critic.

This is his first time moderating a public conversation, but he’s been asking excellent questions since 2018.