Biography of Dr. Catriona Wallace: Founder of Responsible Metaverse Alliance & Boab
Dr. Catriona Wallace: A Leader Shaping the Future of Technology and Society
Introduction to Catriona Wallace’s Journey
Dr. Catriona Wallace is a trailblazer in the fields of
Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Metaverse, and responsible tech. With a rich
background in organizational behavior and human rights advocacy, she has shaped
both technology and society. Recognized globally for her expertise, she was
named Australia’s Most Influential Woman in Business & Entrepreneurship by
the Australian Financial Review. Catriona’s journey has led her from the
corporate world to founding successful companies and shaping important movements
in tech.
Founder of Responsible Metaverse Alliance
One of Catriona’s major contributions to the tech world is
her role as the founder of the Responsible Metaverse Alliance (RMA). This
global initiative is dedicated to ensuring that the Metaverse—a virtual world
encompassing digital platforms—develops responsibly. The alliance focuses on
promoting ethical design, safe usage, and diversity and inclusion in the
Metaverse. It aims to safeguard the wellbeing of participants and maintain
transparency in its development while ensuring that digital and physical worlds
are connected harmoniously.
Boab AI and Advocacy for Diversity
In addition to her work with RMA, Catriona is the Chair of
Boab AI, Australia’s first AI Scale-Up Accelerator and Fund. She’s passionate
about funding AI companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. Backed by
Artesian Capital, Boab AI supports 32 AI startups over four years, aiming to
shape the future of AI through an emphasis on socially responsible innovation.
Catriona’s leadership ensures that these companies are equipped to make a
positive impact on both the tech industry and society at large.
Academic Contributions and Adjunct Professor Role
Catriona’s academic background is just as impressive as her
professional achievements. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior,
specializing in Technology Substituting for Human Leaders. As an adjunct
professor at the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM), Catriona has
co-authored a book titled Checkmate Humanity, which delves into the importance
of responsible AI. Her work in academia also focuses on equipping future
leaders with the knowledge and ethics to handle AI responsibly.
Director at Gradient Institute
In addition to her role in the Metaverse and Boab AI,
Catriona has served as a director at Gradient Institute, an organization
dedicated to advancing Responsible AI practices. Gradient is a not-for-profit
institution that works to build international capabilities in ethical AI and
machine learning. Catriona has played a pivotal role in helping the
organization establish itself as a leader in the field of responsible AI
research, consulting, and training.
Shark Tank and Her Entrepreneurial Journey
Catriona made her television debut as a "Shark" on
the popular Australian show Shark Tank in 2023. Her entrepreneurial spirit and
expertise in AI and technology made her an ideal fit for the panel, where she
evaluates startups and invests in innovative business ideas. Before her time on
Shark Tank, Catriona was the founder of Flamingo AI, a company that went public
in 2020 and became the second-ever woman-led business to list on the Australian
Stock Exchange. This milestone in her career demonstrates her prowess as an
entrepreneur.
Founder of Flamingo AI
Flamingo AI, founded in 2013, was an Artificial Intelligence
company that focused on revolutionizing customer service. Under Catriona’s
leadership, the company grew into a major player in the tech industry,
eventually being listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. The company’s success
further solidified Catriona as a respected entrepreneur in the AI space.
Flamingo AI’s exit in 2020 marked another significant chapter in her career,
allowing her to focus more on her advocacy for responsible tech and the Metaverse.
A Passion for Ethics in Technology
Catriona has always been a passionate advocate for ethical
practices in the tech world. She is a strong believer in the responsible
development and deployment of AI. Her consulting practice, Ethical AI Advisory,
was created to help organizations navigate the complexities of implementing AI
responsibly. Catriona’s work in this space has made her a sought-after voice in
discussions about the future of technology, especially as it pertains to
ensuring fairness, transparency, and ethical considerations in AI systems.
Biography of Dr. Catriona Wallace: Founder of Responsible Metaverse Alliance & Boab#entrepreneur#startup#diversity in AI startups#age#net worth#Metav
Recognitions and Awards
Catriona’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has
received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being recognized
by Onalytica as one of the world’s top AI speakers. Additionally, she was named
among the Top 9 Female Entrepreneurs by the Sydney Morning Herald and
recognized for her role in redefining business by Womens’ Agenda. Her
achievements have earned her a place among the world’s most influential leaders
in AI and responsible technology.
Human Rights Advocacy and Personal Journey
Catriona is also a committed human rights activist. She is a
mother of five and has trained with Indigenous communities as a Plant Medicine
Guide. Her advocacy for human rights is a driving force in her professional
endeavors, especially when it comes to ensuring that the Metaverse and AI
technologies are developed in a way that supports equality and human dignity.
Catriona’s work in this area reflects her deep commitment to making the world a
better place through her various initiatives.
A Woman in Leadership in Technology
As one of the most cited experts in AI and technology
ethics, Catriona has paved the way for women in leadership in the tech
industry. Her career has been marked by firsts—she was the founder of one of
the first woman-led AI companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange and
continues to break barriers in her current roles. Her advocacy for more diverse
representation in leadership positions is a testament to her dedication to
making technology accessible and beneficial to all.
Co-Founder of ACA Research and Fifth Quadrant
Before venturing into AI, Catriona co-founded successful
businesses like ACA Research and Fifth Quadrant, both of which specialized in
market research and customer experience strategy. These companies became
award-winning and have been in operation for over 15 years, providing Catriona
with a wealth of experience in the business world. Her expertise in customer
experience and data analytics played a crucial role in her later success in AI
and tech.
Her Impact on the Future of Work
Catriona is a thought leader when it comes to the future of
work. She believes that AI and the Metaverse will play pivotal roles in
transforming how we work and interact with each other. Through her various
ventures and speaking engagements, Catriona has influenced the way companies
approach digital transformation and employee well-being in the age of
automation and virtual reality. Her work ensures that the future of work is not
just technologically advanced but also socially responsible.
Legacy and Looking Ahead
Dr. Catriona Wallace’s legacy is already shaping the future
of technology, ethics, and human rights. As she continues her advocacy for
responsible AI and the Metaverse, her impact on the tech industry and society
will only grow. Her contributions have not only changed the landscape of AI but
have also laid the groundwork for a more inclusive, ethical, and responsible
tech-driven future. Catriona remains a beacon of leadership in both the tech
and human rights sectors, pushing for a world where technology serves humanity
rather than the other way around.
A timeline for Dr. Catriona Wallace’s story:
2013: Founded Flamingo AI, revolutionizing customer service
with AI.
2020: Flamingo AI went public and became the second
woman-led company on the Australian Stock Exchange.
2023: Joined Shark Tank as a panelist.
2023: Founded the Responsible Metaverse Alliance, promoting
ethical design in virtual worlds.
2023: Co-authored Checkmate Humanity, focusing on
responsible AI.
2023: Served as Chair of Boab AI, promoting diversity in AI
startups.
2023: Recognized as one of the world’s top AI speakers by
Onalytica.
2023: Advocated for responsible AI and the Metaverse, shaping tech and human rights.
