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TELUS's Commitment to Ethical AI at the UN AI for Good Global Summit 2025

TELUS Communications Inc., a prominent global technology firm, actively participated in the United Nations AI for Good Global Summit 2025 held from July 8 to 11 in Geneva. This event brought together leaders from various sectors to discuss the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and promote responsible technological development.

Darren Entwistle, TELUS’s President and CEO, alongside Pam Snively, Chief Data Trust Officer, represented the company’s dedication to fostering trust in technology. Their participation in the AI Skills Coalition—a global initiative aimed at bridging the AI skills gap—underscored TELUS's commitment to ensure that AI advancements serve humanity positively rather than simply demonstrating algorithmic power.

During the summit, TELUS hosted an interactive workshop, collaborating with Fuel iX to demonstrate how Indigenous knowledge can inform ethical AI practices. This initiative reflects a broader effort by TELUS to incorporate diverse perspectives, particularly those of Indigenous peoples, in technological solutions.

Pamela Snively emphasized, "The transformation power of AI can only be unlocked if we earn the trust of the communities we aim to serve. This requires a human-centered approach."

Bridging Knowledge Gaps in AI

Telus’s engagement at the summit included participation in high-profile discussions where they shared valuable insights regarding ethical AI practices, the importance of AI literacy, and governance best practices. The company’s long-standing approach to technology revolves heavily around collaboration, integrating perspectives from industry, society, and employees alike.

As part of its commitment, TELUS collaborated closely with Indigenous leaders, including Shani Gwin, founder and CEO of pipikwan pêhtâkwan, to conduct the workshop titled "Crafting Ethical AI with Indigenous Intelligence." This session aimed to illustrate practical applications of AI influenced by Indigenous knowledge, while also addressing unconscious biases through technology designed for inclusivity.

Commitment to Reconciliation and Social Impact

TELUS has consistently demonstrated its dedication to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Canada through an action plan that seeks to create positive social and economic outcomes. This includes partnerships with Indigenous communities focused on enhancing connectivity, promoting education, and preserving Indigenous data rights. Such efforts showcase TELUS's initiative to contribute positively to society while leveraging advanced technology.

In its 2025 AI Report, the company gathered perspectives from over 5,500 respondents on the relevance of AI, especially emphasizing Indigenous and underrepresented groups. The report highlights that Indigenous narratives, storytelling, and qualitative insights are essential for responsible AI development, arguing that quantitative data alone does not suffice in understanding complex human contexts.

Leading the Charge for Responsible AI

TELUS's participation in the AI for Good Summit reinforces its established role in the field of responsible AI development. The company has proudly become the first globally to receive ISO certification for its generative AI customer support tool, based on its Fuel iX technology, emphasizing privacy-first design principles. Furthermore, TELUS was the first Canadian company to adopt the Hiroshima AI Process Reporting Framework, sharing its best practices for trustworthy AI.

In addition to its ethical commitments, TELUS announced the establishment of Sovereign AI Factories, which aim to empower Canadian businesses and researchers with cutting-edge technology while ensuring data sovereignty. Notably, the AI Factory in Rimouski, Quebec, operates largely on renewable energy and exemplifies energy efficiency.

Conclusion

Through these initiatives and its active role at the AI for Good Global Summit, TELUS illustrates its ongoing mission to lead in responsible technological innovation. Committed to transparency and accountability, TELUS continues to set high standards for what ethical AI should look like in practice. For more information on TELUS's efforts in building trust through technology, visit telus.com/trust.