will.i.am named AI Skills Coalition Goodwill Ambassador
One of our Honorary Fellows will.i.am has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the AI Skills Coalition – a global initiative led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations agency for digital technologies. The announcement was made this month at the AI for Good Summit in Geneva.
His appointment marks a significant step in promoting digital equity through education and skills development, especially as AI tools become increasingly central to the way we live and work.
While best known as a Grammy-winning musician and founding member of the Black Eyed Peas, will.i.am is also a committed technologist and advocate for inclusive innovation. His foundation, i.am Angel, supports STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) education, AI literacy, and robotics programmes in underserved communities. Thousands of students across the United States and internationally have already benefited from initiatives focused on future skills and career access.
As Goodwill Ambassador, will.i.am will work closely with ITU and its global partners to raise awareness of the importance of accessible, ethical AI skills. At the IET, we believe digital access and technical education are essential to innovation, opportunity and economic inclusion.
As an Honorary Fellow of the IET, will.i.am exemplifies how technology can be used as a force for good. His advocacy for creative, ethical and inclusive AI aligns with the IET’s mission to engineer a better world. His new role with the AI Skills Coalition offers an exciting opportunity to bring greater visibility to shared priorities, including digital skills for life, inclusive learning environments, and support for the next generation of engineers and innovators.
With the rise of AI comes the risk of deepening digital divides, particularly where access to training, tools and infrastructure is limited. Through his work, will.i.am continues to challenge that narrative, showing how investment in people and skills can open doors to new opportunities.
Congratulations to will.i.am on this important appointment and we look forward to following his journey as Goodwill Ambassador.