Nina: "Generative AI is set to revolutionise the global economy and redefine how businesses operate. This moment is comparable to 1993 when we were first told to prepare for the Internet, yet at the time, few truly understood how it would reshape industries forever.

“Generative AI represents an even greater transformation—essentially acting as a combustion engine for all human creative and intellectual activity. Every industry, from healthcare to finance to entertainment, will be impacted in ways we are only beginning to uncover. The use cases for this technology are emerging rapidly, and businesses that embrace it now will gain a significant competitive edge in the years to come."

Nina: "My interest in AI didn’t stem from a purely technical background—I wouldn’t describe myself as a "techie" in the traditional sense. My career has always been focused on analysing macro trends that shape society, geopolitics, and the world at large. That’s what led me to research and write about AI. What’s fascinating is that this isn’t just a story about technology—it’s a much bigger story about humanity itself.

“AI is an exponential technology, built and amplified by humans, and it is poised to redefine the way we work, interact, and live our lives. It will even reshape our understanding of what it means to be human. That realisation is what drove me to explore and document this pivotal moment in history."

Nina: "The Metaverse is an evolving concept that represents a potential future direction for the Internet—one where digital experience becomes far more immersive and interactive than what we see today. However, what’s truly exciting is the role AI will play in making these digital worlds a reality. AI will be the key enabler, powering the content generation and infrastructure required to build immersive environments at scale.

“While the full potential of the Metaverse is yet to be realised, what is certain is that AI is already driving advancements in the kind of digital experiences that will shape this next frontier of technology. Whether it’s in gaming, virtual workspaces, or commerce, AI will be instrumental in crafting these experiences, making the Metaverse a more tangible and functional space for businesses and consumers alike."

Nina: "The intersection of AI, big data, and ethics is not just an academic discussion—it is fast becoming one of the most critical and politically charged issues of our time. AI is not just another technological advancement; it is a force that will fundamentally reshape economies, labour markets, and even the very structure of society itself.

“As AI systems become more integrated into decision-making processes—whether in hiring, policing, healthcare, or finance—there is a pressing need to ensure that they are applied in a fair, safe, and ethical manner. The risks include bias in AI decision-making, mass surveillance, loss of privacy, and even the potential for AI-generated misinformation to shape public discourse.

“Navigating these challenges will require a combination of regulation, accountability, and proactive ethical frameworks to ensure that AI serves humanity rather than undermines it. This is not just a technology question; it is a societal one, and how we choose to address it will define the future for generations to come."

Nina: "AI and data are not just influencing politics—they are becoming politics. The AI revolution is poised to be one of the defining political issues of our generation. We’ve already seen how the information revolution, driven by the Internet, smartphones, and cloud computing over the last 30 years, has fundamentally altered global geopolitics.

“Now, with AI accelerating at an unprecedented pace and being fuelled by vast amounts of data, we are entering a new era of digital power dynamics. AI has the potential to amplify existing inequalities, shift geopolitical influence, and redefine governance itself.

From algorithm-driven decision-making in government to the role of AI in warfare and surveillance, the implications are enormous.

“Policymakers and world leaders are already grappling with how to regulate and manage this transformation, but the truth is, we are only at the beginning of this journey. The political conversations around AI will become more urgent and complex in the coming years, and it will be one of the most important issues shaping the 21st century."

Nina: "For businesses looking to embrace digital transformation, the first step is recognising that AI is not just another technological tool—it represents a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and compete. Understanding this paradigm shift is crucial. Once a company fully grasps the transformative potential of AI, it can start identifying specific areas where AI can enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and create new business opportunities.

"This is not just about automating tasks or making incremental improvements—AI can redefine entire industries. Companies need to think long-term rather than focusing solely on short-term gains. Having a well-defined AI strategy, investing in talent that understands AI’s capabilities, and forming dedicated AI working groups can position a business ahead of its competition. Those who integrate AI early and strategically will be the ones leading their industries in the years to come. The time to start exploring AI’s potential is now."

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This interview with Nina Schick was conducted by Mark Matthews.

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