01/10/2026
What does strong leadership look like in AI and Data Science?
ENODA Data Scientist Shriya Murali recently took part in The Data Lab's Future Women in AI and Data Science programme, after being selected to join a small, focused cohort of professionals in the field.
The programme explored how leadership, culture, and responsible AI governance are key pillars of the successful adoption of AI within an organisation.
Across four sessions, ideas were turned into action, while creating opportunities to learn from senior women and connect with others across the industry.
Reflecting on her experience, Shriya shared:
“As a data scientist, much of my work is about measuring the distance between where things are and where they could be. When I came across this programme, I realised I wanted to apply that same thinking to my own career.
Dawn McAra-Hunter's session on responsible AI was especially relevant to my work, pushing me to look beyond model performance to the ethical and organisational impact of AI. The small cohort made the sessions feel like conversations rather than lectures, and sharing ideas with other talented women across the sector was a powerful reminder of the value of community in a field where women are still underrepresented.
More broadly, the programme has given me a clearer picture of the leader I want to become, greater confidence in my path, and a valuable network of peers and senior women in the field.”
Thanks to The Data Lab for creating space for these important conversations and supporting the next generation of leaders in AI.
