Steve Wozniak Inspires Saudi Youth on AI, Creativity, and Ethical Innovation at Misk Global Forum

Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple, spoke at the Misk Global Forum in Riyadh. His talk, titled “Me, Myself, and AI,” focused on artificial intelligence (AI), creativity, and technology ethics. Wozniak addressed a large audience of young Saudis and tech enthusiasts.

Wozniak shared his experiences in the personal computing revolution. He encouraged the audience to take risks and learn from failures. He said, “The greatest things happen when you take risks.” He stressed that effort, even in unsuccessful attempts, builds skills over time.

His message aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to enhance technology and entrepreneurship. Wozniak discussed AI’s potential and the importance of ethical development. He stated, “AI should be like a reporter bringing the information, and a human should be the editor.” He warned about misinformation and stressed the need for transparency in AI systems.

He urged the audience to ensure AI-generated content is accurate and can be traced back to its sources. “Attribution and accuracy are critical for building trust,” he noted. This emphasis supports Saudi efforts to integrate technology for the public good.

Wozniak encouraged young people to view AI as a responsibility. He highlighted the need for systems that reflect ethical values. He advised the youth to embrace creativity and take ownership of their projects. He suggested they focus on hands-on learning and meaningful initiatives.

Drawing from his experience as a teacher, he explained how project-based learning helps students grow. “When students take ownership of a project, they learn skills beyond the classroom,” he said. He emphasized the value of an environment where students can experiment without fear of failure.

Wozniak concluded with his philosophy on life. He prioritizes happiness over material success: “My formula for life is not about accomplishment. It’s about happiness.” He encouraged the audience to focus on positive solutions and to collaborate across different fields.

His final message was clear: take risks, maintain ethics, and create with purpose. Wozniak inspired Saudi youth to contribute to the country’s goal of becoming a leader in innovation.