The recent free AI workshop, facilitated by Malebo Phage, saw more than 50 participants who were willing to learn the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Malebo is the founding member of Newzroom Afrika, eTV and the DStv channel Movie Room.

The event, held on August 23, started with keynote talks and interactive sessions, unpacking AI literacy under the theme ‘No One Left Behind in the Digital Era’. The presentations covered the dangers of misinformation, the ethics of AI and how communities can embrace new digital skills for the future. An open Q and A session was held where participants could speak their minds.

Malebo was stunned to see that many attendees participated, since they had originally only planned to welcome 30. He stated this interest could only be proof that residents hunger for AI literacy.

According to Malebo, the main goal of the workshop was to give attendees the practical tools as well as the awareness and confidence to navigate the world of AI.

“Ultimately, we aimed to transform ordinary citizens from passive consumers of AI tools into informed users and creators,” he explained.

Unlike typical tech seminars, he noted this workshop was grounded in the everyday realities of the community.

It bridged the gap between global tech giants like Google and Meta, and ordinary citizens who use these tools daily but often lack the knowledge to use them responsibly.

“By simplifying complex AI concepts, we empowered participants to think critically, ask ethical questions, and understand how AI is shaping education, work and storytelling,” Malebo said.

Furthermore, Malebo brands the workshop as a major success. He added that teachers in particular emphasised the amount of training they need on the topic, since learners are prone to using AI in classrooms.

“Learners left the workshop saying they feel empowered with a sense of how to align their career choices with AI-ready job demands,” he said.

Malebo is already planning future workshops, which will be held in Randfontein.