You Won't Believe What Happened at the Largest AI Event Ever in the Bahamas – Shocking Transformations Ahead!

NASSAU, BAHAMAS - The recent PBS AI & Innovation Forum has marked a significant milestone as the largest artificial intelligence event held in The Bahamas, drawing attention to the responsible integration of AI across local government and industry sectors. This event is seen as a potential catalyst for change, aiming to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence in the region.

Montino Roberts, the founder and executive chairman of Proficient Business Services (PBS), emphasized the importance of adopting AI responsibly. He noted that as this technology becomes increasingly vital, discussions around its ethical applications are essential. "AI is here, whether we embrace it or resist it, so it is important to have the conversation about what it can do for us all, and how we should be using it," he stated. Roberts highlighted that the forum not only addressed the technical aspects of AI but also the leadership decisions required for its effective implementation.

Held on a Thursday at the British Colonial Hotel, the forum attracted a packed audience, with standing room only and additional chairs brought in to accommodate the larger-than-expected turnout. Participants included representatives from various sectors such as Customs, the police, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the Public Hospitals Authority, and the Ministry of Finance, along with private banks and businesses.

Among the notable speakers was Noelle Russell, a five-time Microsoft AI MVP and a key contributor to the development of Amazon's Alexa. Her insights into AI's transformative potential resonated with attendees, reinforcing the idea that AI is a tool that can enhance workforce capabilities rather than replace them.

Ricardo Parchment, a systems engineer at Fortinet, commended the event, stating, "The presenters were great and there were very thoughtful questions. AI is not a replacement; it is to reduce the busy work and allow people to focus on improving things." This sentiment was echoed by other attendees, who recognized that AI can help streamline tasks, freeing up valuable time for more meaningful work.

Alessandro Major from the local digital company Sapodil noted the significance of AI for small businesses in The Bahamas. "AI can help people get more done with their day. The Bahamas is placed in a way where we are very much exposed to AI on a daily basis," he explained, highlighting the technology's growing presence in everyday life, especially in areas like travel and shipping.

Enrique Rolle from the Ministry of Finance’s National Targeting Centre expressed optimism about local AI initiatives, stating, "It would be advantageous if we could get a local company to do these kinds of things. The agricultural community and healthcare would benefit from AI here in The Bahamas." His comments reflect a broader recognition that local solutions could address regional challenges.

Roberts regarded the forum as a success, with many attendees advocating for it to become an annual event. He remarked, "The response from people has been very strong. There is a real eagerness to learn how to make the most of AI." As participants shared ideas and discussed their fears about technology, the forum provided an essential platform for dialogue. "This gave people a chance to connect and have that conversation, and I hope that conversation continues through the coming weeks and months," he added.

The outpouring of interest suggests that The Bahamas is on the cusp of leveraging AI to enhance its potential. As the conversation around AI continues, the hope is that the insights gained from such gatherings will lead to innovative applications that can benefit various sectors across the nation.