Detroit-based Mariyah Saifuddin Addresses the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Advancing Women’s Entrepreneurship
“Artificial intelligence is shaping our future, but who shapes AI?”. This was the provocative question posed by Detroit-based entrepreneur Mariyah Saifuddin of the Detroit Dawoodi Bohra community, who spoke at the 6th Annual International Women & Justice Summit, held in Istanbul between 8-9th November.
Speaking to a global audience of diplomats, academics, business leaders, and innovators, Mariyah highlighted the urgent need for women to play a central role in AI development to ensure technology benefits everyone.
Organized by the Women and Democracy Association (KADEM), this year’s summit, “AI and Women”, aimed to explore how advancements in artificial intelligence can be leveraged for a more just and secure future for women. The summit brought together national and international diplomats, bureaucrats, civil society representatives, media, academics, artists, and business leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue.
CEO and co-founder of Innovative Solution Partners, an IT Consulting Firm based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Mariyah delivered a presentation titled "The Role of Data and AI on Gender Equality - A Global Perspective". Her talk highlighted how data and AI have both positively and negatively impacted female entrepreneurship, emphasizing actionable ways to drive more positive change.
“I chose entrepreneurship because it allowed me to be the woman and mom I wanted to be: volunteering at my kids’ schools, cheering them on at their various events, and being able to run my business at really odd hours and weekends while taking care of my family,” said Mariyah.
Her presentation focused on the messages of flexibility, innovation, autonomy, and growth. She also spoke about how female entrepreneurs can use AI to make business processes smoother and more efficient, free up time for other opportunities, and provide equitable solutions to women facing the modern challenges of a digital world. She emphasized the importance of having women involved in the AI talent pool to avoid furthering its bias and ensure a level playing field for women in AI.
Mariyah’s passion for technology and business began early. Growing up in the 1980s, she helped her parents run their computer sales and repair shop, gaining hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and tech. This early exposure laid the foundation for a career where she seamlessly blends innovation with her drive to empower others.
This taste of entrepreneurship and tech stayed with her as she navigated life after college and pursued a career that brought about a mix of both. She attributes this pursuit to the counsel of the Dawoodi Bohra leader, His Holiness Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, to continuously seek education and utilize it to give back to the community. This led her to start her own IT firm that she co-founded with her husband in 1999.
Reflecting on the summit’s impact, Mariyah said, “Having more women skilled in AI doesn’t just empower individuals—it empowers societies. The KADEM summit provided a vital platform to share this message and connect with others working toward a more inclusive future.”
Mariyah’s journey, from helping her parents in a small business to addressing global leaders in Istanbul, showcases the power of education, entrepreneurship, and perseverance. Her story is a testament to how women can lead in shaping a future where technology drives equality and innovation.
