In this episode of The News in You, we move beyond the hype to examine what AI truly is, how it functions, and why governance, power, and sovereignty now shape our collective future. Because AI is not neutral. It mirrors the values and blind spots of those who build it.

Host Eleisha Foon sits down with Eteroa Lafaele, software engineer, founder, Young New Zealander of the Year 2025, and Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, whose work through DigiTautua and Fibre Fale has opened pathways into tech for Pacific and underserved communities.

If we are building the future, who gets to belong and how do we make sure indigenous and marginalised communities are part of shaping it? Justice in the AI era begins with sovereignty and with ensuring no one is coded out of tomorrow.

Support the show

Welcome to The News In You, presented by award-winning international journalist Eleisha Foon.

Sign up now to the Patreon to support the podcast: Eleisha Foon

Follow the podcast on instagram: @thenewsinyou

For more about the host, visit eleishafoon.com