The Human Resource Management Association of T&T (HRMATT) successfully hosted its much-anticipated C-Suite Conversations on Artificial Intelligence vs Human Intelligence (AI vs HI) on September 11, at the Hyatt Regency. This forward-thinking event brought together HR professionals, industry leaders, and technology enthusiasts to examine the future of work and the role AI will play in human resource management in T&T.
HRMATT president Cavelle Joseph-St Omer opened the event with an impactful address, underscoring the importance of adapting to the fast-evolving HR landscape.
“AI is a strategic technology that can support our country’s transition to a digital society, benefiting both workers and companies by enhancing health and safety, supporting competitiveness, and improving processes,” said Joseph-St Omer.
She emphasised that the future of work is not about AI versus human intelligence, but about harnessing the strengths of both to build a more efficient, empathetic, and innovative workforce.
The conference’s theme, AI vs HI, was explored through thought-provoking speeches, insightful panel discussions, and case studies from local and global perspectives. Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Randall Mitchell captivated the audience with his remarks on AI’s transformative potential in the tourism sector.
“The preference between AI and HI is not as important as understanding how to integrate them to shape the future. AI tools like Airbnb, rideshare apps, and virtual assistants offering real-time language translation are already revolutionising the tourism industry,” Minister Mitchell explained.
Minister Mitchell further pointed out that while AI enhances convenience and efficiency, it cannot replace the emotional intelligence and empathy that humans bring to customer service, which is vital in a people-centred sector like tourism.
AI’s role in emerging markets
Rita Kusi, an HR Consultant from Ghana, shared her dynamic presentation focused on how AI can elevate HR practices, especially in emerging markets like T&T.
Kusi shared how AI-driven tools are transforming recruitment processes, employee engagement, and performance management in organisations worldwide. “AI can optimise HR functions, allowing HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives that add value to their organisations,” she noted, highlighting the positive impact AI can have when integrated effectively.
Ethical considerations in AI adoption
HRMATT’s panel discussions delved into the ethical implications of adopting AI within the local HR framework. Issues such as data privacy, bias in AI systems, and the need for transparency in AI decision-making were central themes. The panellists, which included local industry experts like Irwin Williams, head of Software Development at iGovTT, emphasised that T&T’s HR professionals must champion ethical AI practices to ensure that the technology is deployed in a way that aligns with the country’s values and promotes workforce diversity.
One of the key questions raised during the event was whether AI will replace humans in the workplace. HRMATT’s position is clear: AI can process vast amounts of data at high speeds, but human intelligence brings a unique depth, shaped by emotion, empathy, and a broader spectrum of cognitive abilities.
As Leslie Lee Fook, Director of AI, Analytics & Automation at Incus Services Limited, explained, “The more important question is how AI can augment human intelligence in the workplace. A balanced collaboration between AI and HI can yield remarkable outcomes.”
AI and healthcare innovation
Another highlight of the event was the discussion on how AI is already making strides in the healthcare sector. Dr Navi Muradali, CEO of Patient Connect and HRMATT’s Wellness Hub partner, spoke about how AI is revolutionising patient care by assisting in diagnostics, treatment planning, and overall healthcare management. He stressed the significance of AI in streamlining medical processes, while pointing out that human empathy remains essential for patient interactions.
Key takeaways for HR professionals:
- Staying updated on AI Trends: HR professionals must continuously educate themselves on AI technologies that are reshaping the workforce.
- Integrating AI into HR: AI offers opportunities to streamline recruitment, performance management, and employee engagement while enhancing decision-making capabilities.
- Enhancing efficiency: By automating routine tasks, AI frees HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives that drive organizational success.
- Personalising employee experiences: AI has the potential to tailor learning and development opportunities, providing personalised feedback that can significantly improve job satisfaction and retention.
Shaping the future of HR in T&T
The event concluded with a call to action for HR professionals to embrace the evolving landscape. AI’s role in HR is undeniable, but it is human intelligence that will guide its ethical and empathetic application. HRMATT’s initiative demonstrates that T&T is not just ready but well-positioned to lead the Caribbean in integrating AI into the workplace responsibly.
HRMATT extended its heartfelt thanks to the sponsors whose contributions ensured the event’s success. Together, they are shaping the future of HR by integrating technology and fostering human potential in T&T.
Road Ahead
As T&T continues to evolve into a digital economy, the collaboration between AI and HI offers a promising future for HR professionals and industries alike. Rather than fearing AI’s rise, HRMATT encourages the workforce to view it as a valuable ally in building a more innovative, compassionate, and efficient work environment.
