Building Human-Centered AI: Lessons from Rupa Bhagwat on #WxAISocialSaturday

The Power of Human-Centered AI

During a vibrant #WxAISocialSaturday, WOMEN x AI brought together voices from across the tech world to explore how artificial intelligence can — and should — be shaped by human needs, empathy, and inclusion. Hosted by the inspiring Rupa Bhagwat, the conversation centered on building AI that uplifts, empowers, and protects women in technology and beyond.

About Rupa Bhagwat

Rupa Bhagwat is a Lead Product Manager at Parker Hannifin, where she drives innovations in AI, IoT, robotics, and automation. She is the author of Product huMan, the founder of TechWalk in Silicon Valley, and a fierce advocate for community-driven tech. Rupa recently took the stage at Product World 2025 in Santa Clara, where she shared her expertise on human behavior, innovation, and the future of technology​.

Insights from the Community: Designing for Real Human Needs

Rupa asked the WOMEN x AI community three thought-provoking questions:

• What everyday moment could AI improve?

• What AI tool would uniquely support women in tech?

• What changes should (and shouldn't) AI bring over the next decade?

The answers reflected a deep desire to build tools that enhance—not replace—human capabilities:

"A microinvesting matchmaking tool. Every month offer me three women-owned businesses looking for capital based on my investing preferences." – Christine Farrier Rosemin "An AI powered tool that helps women proactively manage and optimize their health, filling the gap in the health tech space where preventive care for women is often overlooked." - Tasha Blackman "I'd love to create a Gossip Goblin specifically for matchmaking women entrepreneurs with other like minded builders, investors, marketers to help them find the best connections and increase their surface area for success." - Meg McWilliams

"I’d build an AI mentor to help women navigate pay gaps, decode corporate lingo, and prep for board-level roles with confidence." – Kate Carter

"We must be proactive in reskilling because AI will displace some jobs; education needs to prepare students for never-ending learning." – Reut Lazo​ "AI could negotiate total compensation fairly, removing bias from the hiring process." – Jenny Kay Pollock

These ideas underscore the critical need for AI systems designed around transparency, fairness, and real human experiences.

The Next 10 Years: A Future Designed with Care

While the community expressed excitement for AI's potential to automate tedious tasks and support wellbeing, many also emphasized caution:

"AI must never override human intuition or erode authentic connections," Rupa Bhagwat emphasized.

Other hopes included AI-powered wellness tools, smarter emotional health trackers, and career-pathing mentors designed specifically to help women thrive in tech leadership roles.

Shaping a More Inclusive Future Together

The conversation during #WxAISocialSaturday reaffirmed that women in AI are not just users of technology — they are its designers, critics, and visionaries. Together, we can build a future where AI enhances human potential, celebrates empathy, and prioritizes inclusion.

Ready to add your voice? Join us for the next #WxAISocialSaturday on LinkedIn and help us shape the future of AI — human-centered, inclusive, and unstoppable.