This narrative essay piece is part of the FunDza Fellowship Project, showcasing the incredible talent of our 2024 Fellows. These stories were crafted by emerging young writers as part of their journey to hone their skills in storytelling. Each piece reflects their unique voice and creativity. We’re excited to share their remarkable narratives with you!

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Every time when speaking of GBV most people imagine support groups, protests, going to courts and all that however more innovative ways have been found especially with the introduction of AI that can be impactful to tackle GBV. 

The harmonious integration of AI and human elements will shape a future where technology enhances human life without replacing it. By striking a balance between AI and the human element, we can enhance productivity and efficiency while also promoting social and emotional well-being. Achieving this balance requires collaboration between humans and AI systems. This balance is a crucial consideration in various aspects of life such as healthcare, ethics and customer service. AI can be used for diagnosis and treatment while maintaining human compassion and care. It can be blended with human customer support for personalised experiences. However, it is important that AI aligns with human values and moral principles.

I’m a person who enjoys watching YouTube vlogs even though I’m not really a fan of the ads that would usually pop up in between while you are watching. Yesterday as I was watching one of my faves, a ‘BetterHelp’ advert popped up and distracted me, it was one of those ads you cannot skip so I had no choice but to watch it. BetterHelp is an online counselling platform that uses AI quiz to match individuals with the right licensed therapists. I think that this platform is perfect for GBV victims as they do not have to leave their homes to attend counselling. We know that most victims tend to physically and emotionally isolate themselves, therefore they can do that while getting help online at the comfort of their homes. The cost of therapy ranges from $65 to $90 billed every four weeks depending on the therapist availability, and you can cancel your membership anytime. Victims can communicate with their therapists via exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone or video conferencing.

Through research I have discovered that there is an alternative for online counselling for those victims who may not afford platforms like BetterHelp. I think that chatbots are just as helpful, even though you may not be chatting to a registered therapist, they are also computer programs designed to simulate conversations with humans. One famous and very easily accessible chatbot is Meta AI which I’ve came across on WhatsApp, Facebook and instagram. Meta has an answer to everything and I also chat with it when I am bored or need advise rather. I think that Meta AI can be a very good first step for GBV victims as it provides emotional support should they have no one to talk to or fear judgements , it also shares resources like helplines and services. Chatbots are not a replacement for professional help but they offer support and guidance.

During the month of June, the SheLeads organisation in partnership with NEMISA and Geekulcha hosted the ‘EmpowerHerAI hackathon’ where young people presented AI based solutions to try and combat GBV. The participants presented very creative solutions from robots to chatbots. I honestly cannot wait for their solutions to evolve and make a real impact on the society.

AI aims to create a more efficient, connected and sustainable world. I strongly believe that the current era of technology advancement has made our lives a lot more easier.

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