Making AI Work for All of Humanity
PearlAI is a research and development organization using AI to solve AI-induced risks and unlock opportunity, especially for young people and underserved communities.
Our Mission
We exist to make sure AI benefits all of humanity, not just the rich.
In a world where AI is rapidly transforming every aspect of life, PearlAI ensures that young people, educators, and communities—especially in underserved regions—have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to participate in and shape this transformation.
Our Vision
A future where access to AI is democratized—not monopolized.
We envision a world where world-class AI research and tools are used to improve life for every community, where young people in Lagos have the same opportunities as those in Silicon Valley, and where AI amplifies human potential rather than replacing it.
Our Values
Four pillars that guide everything we do.
Inclusion
AI that reflects diverse cultures, languages, and lived realities.
Safety
Guardrails, literacy, and practices that protect people—especially youth—from harm.
Innovation
Bold experimentation on how AI can transform learning, livelihoods, and community resilience.
Equity
Ensuring the benefits of AI reach those who have historically been left out.
Our Story
PearlAI is the successor to Pearls Africa, a pioneering organization that spent over 15 years empowering girls and young women across Africa through technology education and mentorship. Founded by a CNN Heroes Award recipient, Pearls Africa reached more than 20,000 girls in 14 African countries.
As artificial intelligence began reshaping the global landscape, we recognized both an urgent need and a unique opportunity. While AI promised unprecedented benefits, it also posed significant risks—especially for communities already marginalized by digital divides. Young people in underserved regions faced not only limited access to AI tools but also increased vulnerability to AI-driven misinformation, job displacement, and privacy violations.
In response, we evolved into PearlAI—expanding our mission to ensure that AI becomes a force for inclusion, safety, and opportunity. We now focus on research-driven programs that help communities learn about AI, use it safely, develop AI-powered skills for economic advancement, and build solutions that reflect their own cultures and needs.
Today, PearlAI operates at the intersection of education, research, and community development. Our work spans AI & Safety Clubs in schools, teacher fellowships, online learning communities, curriculum development, AI-powered learning companions, and research labs studying the cultural and behavioral dimensions of AI adoption.
Recognition & Media
Our work has been recognized globally by organizations committed to social impact and innovation.