I feel humbled to be recognised as a Male Champion for DEI in the category of National AI Research Leadership at the Women in AI Awards 2026 APAC. For me, that recognition is really about the role research leaders can play in creating opportunities, offering encouragement at the right moment, and helping talented women in AI to thrive.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to see more than a dozen outstanding women scientists from CSIRO recognised as finalists and winners in the Women in AI Awards, alongside a number of women we work with across the broader AI research and innovation ecosystem. I can claim only a very small part in any of their success, but I am pleased that supporting and creating opportunities for women in AI has become part of what my research leadership represents.

That was also very much what I wanted to say when accepting the award:

“I did notice there are only two men receiving awards tonight, so I’m proceeding very carefully.

I’m not really here to accept an award for my own research leadership. There are far too many outstanding women in this room for me to do that comfortably.

What I am very happy to accept is recognition that encourages me to continue being an advocate for women in AI.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that sometimes advocacy doesn’t require anything heroic. Often, it is simply noticing the talent, creating an opportunity, and giving someone a little nudge when they are hesitating. The talent is already there, and when given the opportunity, people thrive.

I’ve also learned enormously from the women I’ve worked with. So I see this recognition as encouragement to keep doing more of that. My thanks to Women in AI Asia Pacific, and particularly Angela, for continuing to build a platform that makes these achievements visible.”

The evening was also a good opportunity to celebrate the strong representation from CSIRO. Congratulations to our finalists and award recipients, Dr Alexandra Bratanova, Dr Farina Riaz, Dr Zijue Chen and Dr Sidra Alam, as well as to collaborators and colleagues from across the wider Australian AI community who were recognised.