As AI continues to transform industries, women are making their mark in shaping its ethical and technological future. This Women’s Day, AI Reporter America, part of the World AI Network, celebrates female leadership in AI with Neeta Singal, Partner & Co-founder of KnowDis. An advocate for innovation and diversity, Neeta shares her journey as a female entrepreneur in AI, the role of technology in advancing women’s healthcare and business, and how fostering inclusivity can drive meaningful change in the industry.

As a female co-founder in AI, what challenges have you faced, and how can women play a larger role in shaping the industry?

AI is not a gender specific industry, the journey as a co-founder comes with unique challenges, but also offers incredible opportunities to drive meaningful change. While the tech industry may have been traditionally male-dominated, women are increasingly shaping AI’s future with innovation, leadership, and ethical foresight.

The AI and tech sectors still have a gender gap—what steps can companies take to encourage more women in AI and data science?

There are no formal barriers preventing women from entering the field. Opportunities are based on skills, innovation, and expertise, and many companies actively encourage diversity in hiring and leadership.

Based on my experience, women are making significant contributions in AI research, startups, and ethical AI development. With access to high-quality education, online resources, and industry networks, anyone with a continuous zeal to learn and the right skillset —regardless of gender—can build a successful career in AI.

How can AI be leveraged to drive meaningful change for women in healthcare, business, and beyond?

Some use cases of women-centric AI in Healthcare

Early Diagnosis & Disease Prediction

• AI-powered imaging and diagnostic tools help detect diseases like breast cancer, PCOS, and endometriosis earlier than traditional methods.
• Predictive analytics assess risk factors for conditions such as osteoporosis disease, which are more prevalent in women.

Maternal & Infant Health

• AI-powered wearable devices monitor fetal health and maternal vitals, reducing complications during pregnancy.

Mental Health Support

• Chatbots and AI-driven platforms provide accessible mental health support, addressing issues like postpartum depression and anxiety.

AI in Drug Discovery

AI is used to analyze vast biological and chemical datasets to identify potential drug candidates more efficiently.

Our company Molecule AI has introduced AI-driven drug discovery through its proprietary platform, Molecule GEN.

• Target Identification & Drug Design
• AI scans genetic and molecular data to find disease-associated targets (e.g., proteins linked to cancer or Alzheimer's).
• Deep learning models simulate how drug molecules interact with these targets, predicting efficacy before lab testing.
• AI-driven generative models can create new molecular structures optimized for treating specific diseases.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to break into the AI and tech space?

To young women aspiring to enter the AI and tech sectors, I offer the following advice:

• Build a strong foundation: Focus on acquiring a solid understanding of mathematics, programming, and data science principles.
• Seek mentorship: Connect with professionals in the field who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
• Engage in continuous learning: The tech landscape is ever-evolving; staying updated with the latest advancements is crucial.
• Participate in projects: Hands-on experience through internships, research projects, or open-source contributions can significantly enhance your practical skills.
• Build a support network: Join communities, attend workshops, and engage in forums to connect with like-minded individuals and share experiences.

Remember, resilience and perseverance are key. Challenges are inevitable, but with determination and support, you can overcome them and make a significant impact in the AI industry.

How do you balance leadership and well-being, and what strategies do you recommend for women in fast-paced industries?

Balancing leadership responsibilities with personal well-being is vital. I prioritize setting clear boundaries between work and personal time, ensuring I allocate moments for relaxation and family. Practices such as mindfulness and regular physical activity help maintain mental and physical health. For women in fast-paced industries, I recommend:

• Delegation: Trust your team with responsibilities to prevent burnout.
• Time management: Prioritize tasks and focus on what's essential.
• Support systems: Cultivate a network of peers and mentors for guidance and encouragement.
• Continuous reflection: Regularly assess your goals and adjust strategies to align with your well-being.

Embracing these strategies can lead to a sustainable aRnd fulfilling career without compromising personal health.

What is your vision for KnowDis AI in the next five years, and how do you see women contributing to AI’s ethical development?

In the next five years, I envision KnowDis AI expanding its footprint globally, offering innovative solutions that address real-world challenges across sectors like healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. We aim to lead in developing AI that is not only efficient but also ethical and inclusive. Women play a crucial role in this journey; their diverse perspectives are essential in identifying potential biases and ensuring that AI systems are fair and equitable. By fostering an inclusive environment, we can harness the full potential of AI to benefit all of society.

With AI adoption growing, do you see KnowDis expanding beyond its current focus in India? What are your plans for scaling, and how can women be part of this growth?

Absolutely, as AI adoption accelerates, we see immense opportunities to expand KnowDis beyond India. Our scaling strategy includes forming strategic partnerships, entering new markets, and continuously innovating our product offerings to meet global demands. Women will be integral to this growth, not only in leadership roles but across all functions. We ensure that our expansion is driven by diverse talents, leading to more holistic and globally relevant AI solutions.