“It’s not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is
Empire of AI Event 10/2025
“It’s not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: what are we busy about?” – Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862, American writer & philosopher)
What are we busy about—and what should we be busy about? Do our actions align with our purpose and values?
The exhilarating pace of #AI development certainly keeps us busy, consuming both human and environmental resources. But is this “development at all costs” justified? Can we overlook the environmental toll, data appropriation, and poor working conditions in the Global South that accompany the development of massive AI models?
These were key questions explored by Sheila Beladinejad 🇨🇦, tech leader in Europe & North America, and Karen Hao, esteemed AI journalist and author of the book „Empire of AI“.
Karen and Sheila inspired the audience to think about the cost of AI in their own day-to-day, their entrepreneurial endeavors, and their research. In a brief but powerful session, they offered a pause from the rush of AI development.
Now, what should we be busy about?
As a #researcher: Focus on specific, small-scale AI models—tools that assist in curing disease, disaster response, or education—rather than large, resource-hungry generalist models.
As an #entrepreneur: Translate awareness of AI’s costs into daily decisions. Choose partners thoughtfully and consider creating positive impact with every action.
As a #citizen: Engage locally, discuss, and raise concerns with municipal representatives about the consequences of technical and infrastructural decisions.
Want to make a measurable impact today? Impact Hero links everyday actions to real-world regeneration. Redeem the code EMPIRE-TREE on their website, and they’ll plant a tree for you. Free. ⏩ https://lnkd.in/eMsA_EyP
We thank Karen Hao for taking the time with us while traveling the world, sharing her insights so openly and authentically. And we thank Sheila Beladinejad for orchestrating every detail to make this event possible and for driving such a powerful discussion.
This event sparked reflections that, while small on their own, can collectively drive meaningful #change— all made possible by the coming together of #communities.
Thanks to our partners and supporters:
- Amerikahaus, for hosting in their incredible venue, and Markus Faltermeier & Megan Simpson for their unwavering support in organizing.
- ImpactHero and UpXcale, for their generous sponsorship and support in spreading the message.
- Women in AI & Robotics, for bringing their community to help with marketing and day-of support.
- Mara-Jean Krupa for bringing the student community’s perspective to the event opening and assisting in organizing the event.
- Our photographer, Manuel Holler, for capturing memorable moments.
- Filippo Heller from MOMENTO Catering, for keeping our audience energized with delicious food.
To many more events built on #community and #collaboration! Until then: keep busy—doing the right things.
Originally posted on LinkedIn · View the original post