October was a landmark month for Liverpool City Region’s AI journey, bringing together young people, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore how artificial intelligence can shape our future. The Youth AI Summit on 20 October and the LCR AI Summit on 23 October showcased the region’s commitment to innovation and inclusion.
Youth AI Summit: Empowering the Next Generation
Hosted at The Spine, the Youth AI Summit was co-organised by the Civic Data Cooperative (CDC) and the University of Liverpool’s Widening Participation team. The event welcomed students from across the region to demystify AI and spark conversations about its impact on society.
From interactive workshops to lively debates, young participants explored both the hopes and fears of AI. In a standout moment, students drafted a letter to the Chief AI Officer at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, sharing their perspectives on ethical AI and its role in education and employment. Several of the students were selected to join the Chief AI Officer on stage at LCR AI Summit to present their letter.
The summit also featured a marketplace of local AI companies, giving attendees a glimpse into real-world applications and career pathways. Mayor Steve Rotheram joined the discussions, reinforcing the message that youth voices matter in shaping policy.
“We want AI to be fair, transparent, and used for good – not just profit,”
– One student from the session
If we want to truly harness AI for good, it can’t be underpinned by fear
– Dr Emily Rempel
LCR AI Summit: Driving Regional Innovation
Just three days later, the LCR AI Summit, organised by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, brought together industry experts, academics, and public sector leaders. The focus: how AI can power economic growth and improve public services.
The CDC’s Dr Emily Rempel was part of a panel titled “Empowering Education and Civic Life Through Intelligent Data”. Emily reflected on the CDC’s recent Youth AI Summit, noting that while many young people are optimistic about AI, there is a parallel narrative of fatalism.
Sessions also highlighted the LCR Community Data and AI Charter, a framework for responsible innovation, and showcased cutting-edge projects from local businesses. The summit underscored the region’s ambition to become a national leader in ethical AI deployment, with collaboration at its core.
Together, these events reflect the region’s goal to lead on ethical and responsible AI. By engaging young people and convening decision-makers, Liverpool City Region is building an inclusive ecosystem where technology serves the public good.
The Youth AI Summit gave students a platform to influence policy, while the LCR AI Summit demonstrated how regional leadership can turn ideas into action. Both summits emphasised transparency, fairness, and community benefit – principles that will guide future AI initiatives.
What’s Next?
The conversation doesn’t end here. Explore more about our work:
- Read the LCR AI & Data Charter
- Listen to the AI & Us podcast
- Sign up for festive of data 5-7 Feb 2026
Together, we can help ensure AI is a force for good – shaping a future that works for everyone in the LCR.