Irina Mirkina
Irina Mirkina
Explain what you do in 7 words
I make sure that algorithms save children and don’t harm children.
Where you’re from and where you are now?
I’ve lived and worked in 7 countries and numerous cities. For now, I’m happily settled in Stockholm, Sweden.
What you were doing before joining UNICEF?
I developed algorithms for research (when I worked in academia) and then for profit (when I built my career in the private sector). Now I do it to save the world – not a small task, huh?
What has been your biggest success in your role at UNICEF?
I supported country offices, regional offices, and other divisions in their quest to understand AI systems better and implement them more ethically. When one discussion (such as a brown bag seminar) sparkles multiple discussions and projects, it’s a great progress!
What was your dream job when you were a child?
I wanted to be a singer. Pop or opera – didn’t matter, I just wanted to be on stage, singing my heart out.
What is your hidden skill / talent?
I speak 6 languages. Since most of our work is in English, it’s a skill that remains kind of hidden until people realize that they can talk to me in their own language.