In an insightful presentation at the IDB Lab meetup on May 7, 2024, Eldon Marks, founding director of V75 Inc. and co-founder of TrueSelph Inc., shared groundbreaking achievements in democratizing artificial intelligence (AI) in Guyana as part of an IDB Lab TC Prototype grant project. Addressing over 50 representatives from the IDB Lab across LATAM, the Caribbean, and their Washington D.C. Headquarters, Marks delineated the strides his venture has taken to make AI technology accessible and transformative at a local and international scale. He discussed the significance of his projects, particularly through V75 Inc. and a notable collaboration with Dr. Jason Mars, setting a foundation to elaborate on their AI product 'TrueSelph'.
'TrueSelph' is an AI platform he and his team in Guyana engineered to be globally relevant while powering cost-effective AI solutions at scale. This platform aims to empower developers, researchers, organizations, and consumers to utilize powerful AI technologies responsibly. A standout feature of TrueSelph is its affordability and adaptability across multiple digital platforms such as kiosks, social media, and IoT devices which can potentially alter the interactions between technology and everyday life.
Marks highlighted that with the rise of generative AI in 2022, there was a profound shift in the industry, necessitating platforms that could bring AI's potential into practical use with real-world applications. He introduced attendees to the AI Enablement Program under TrueSelph that helps startups integrate AI into their operations by providing them with necessary tools, innovation strategies, and support. To date, the program has supported 15 startups and organizations in Guyana, demonstrating the practical utility and confidence building in AI technologies among emerging businesses.
The broader impact of TrueSelph was showcased through its diverse applications across sectors such as tourism, healthcare, legal services, and education. Marks gave an example of IRIS, a multilingual AI designed as a public service tool for citizens, predominantly aiding in education by interacting with students to help with homework and other study activities.
One of the significant collaborations was with the government to create 'Jesse', an AI that amalgamates information from multiple government agencies to provide streamlined public services. This initiative has already seen a reduction in repetitive inquiries, showcasing the efficacy of AI in enhancing public service administration.
The AI-4D event hosted in November 2023 was another highlight from Marks' presentation. This first-of-its-kind exhibition in Guyana attracted over 600 attendees and facilitated meaningful dialogues on AI applications, generating prominent partnerships with the United Nations, the Industry and Innovation Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister, and other significant stakeholders planning to incorporate AI into governmental and private sector processes.
In conclusion, Eldon Marks passionately advocated for the pivotal role of generative AI in propelling societal and economic advancements in developing regions. He emphasized overcoming regional challenges such as brain drain and technology ecosystem development through targeted interventions like extensive training, retention of human capital, and continuous innovation.
With such initiatives, Marks' TrueSelph is not only a testament to the potential of AI in transforming lives but also sets an exemplary model of how technology can be leveraged for broad, impactful change, marking a significant step forward for Guyana and possibly other regions in the near future.
