Regional Leadership

AIGN Regional LeadershipDriving Responsible AI – Across Continents

AIGN Regional Leadership

The World’s Leading Minds in Responsible AI Governance

At AIGN, Regional Leadership means more than representation—it is a mark of global distinction and thought leadership. Our Regional Leads are among the world’s foremost architects of responsible AI. Each is carefully selected through a rigorous, invitation-only process that recognizes measurable achievement, strategic foresight, and the power to shape AI governance at the highest level.

These are not simply regional spokespeople. They are internationally recognized thought leaders—trusted by governments, industry, and academia alike. As innovators, advisors, and bridge-builders, they define the benchmarks for excellence, trust, and ethical impact in AI across continents.

AIGN Regional Leaders:

  • Drive international standards and set the global AI agenda.
  • Advise on policy, regulation, and ecosystem building at the highest levels.
  • Lead by example—transforming vision into action and impact.

Membership in this network is exclusive. Only those who continuously deliver measurable, real-world results and embody the AIGN mission are invited to join.

Winston Mariku – Regional Lead Africa
🔗 [LinkedIn Profile]

Winston Mariku stands among Africa’s most visionary AI strategists and governance experts. As Regional Lead, he empowers the continent’s most promising innovators, shaping AI solutions that reflect African values, drive sustainable growth, and strengthen digital sovereignty.

Thought Leadership in Action:

  • Championing Africa’s leading AI startups and research talent.
  • Bridging traditional knowledge with frontier technology.
  • Developing ethical AI frameworks tailored to Africa’s development.
  • Partnering with the African Union and institutions on governance at scale.

Winston’s thought leadership ensures that Africa is not just adapting to global AI—Africa is actively defining it.

Dr. John V. Francis – Regional Lead MENA
🔗 [LinkedIn Profile]

Dr. John V. Francis is a renowned authority on AI governance, celebrated for his leadership across the Middle East and North Africa. His academic excellence, regulatory insight, and vision for digital societies make him a pivotal figure in advancing ethical, trusted AI at scale.

Thought Leadership in Action:

  • Building the region’s most trusted and scalable AI ecosystems.
  • Leading cross-border regulation and compliance readiness.
  • Advancing AI education and executive leadership for future generations.
  • Forging high-level partnerships with governments and enterprise.

Under Dr. Francis’s guidance, MENA is recognized globally for its commitment to ethical and strategic AI leadership.

Timothy Y. Kang – Regional Lead South Korea
🔗 [LinkedIn Profile]

Timothy Y. Kang is a thought leader at the intersection of policy, technology, and innovation. His leadership unites Korea’s world-class tech ecosystem with international best practices, ensuring that Korea’s voice in responsible AI governance is respected worldwide.

Thought Leadership in Action:

  • Advancing Korea’s position as a leader in human-centered, ethical AI.
  • Establishing trusted certification and governance for public and private sectors.
  • Fostering alliances across industry, academia, and government.
  • Showcasing Korean innovation in global AI standards and forums.

Timothy Kang’s thought leadership bridges global regulation and local excellence—anchoring Korea’s role as a future-defining node in responsible AI.

AIGN Regional Leaders are the driving force behind responsible, human-centered AI worldwide. Their collective impact reaches from local communities to global summits, from classroom education to C-suite strategy. AIGN is not a network of representatives, but a curated alliance of the world’s leading minds—selected for their ability to shape the future.

This is the AIGN difference:
Excellence by invitation. Impact by action. Leadership by example.


Want to collaborate with AIGN’s thought leaders in Africa, India, MENA, or South Korea?
Join us—and help build a future where AI truly serves humanity. [Contact us]