WIA Philanthropy Spotlight: Sofia Bourhim
2026 Young Leader
We are delighted to continue our 2026 Spotlight Series by celebrating you, Sofia!
Can you tell us briefly who you are and what you do?
I am Sofia Bourhim, an AI researcher and public-sector data governance leader from Morocco. I lead the Data Quality and Integrity Unit at Morocco’s Tax Administration, where I work on using data and AI to improve public services and decision-making. Alongside my professional role, I pursue research in AI, particularly its applications in healthcare, and contribute to initiatives promoting responsible AI and research communities across Africa. What connects these different aspects of my work is a commitment to making technology more accessible, meaningful, and impactful for our societies.
What inspired you to start your journey or project?
I have always been fascinated by the potential of technology to address complex problems. But what truly shaped my journey was realizing that technological progress does not automatically translate into societal progress. Through my experience in research and public institutions, I became increasingly interested in how we can move beyond developing sophisticated AI models to building solutions that respond to real needs.
In Africa, where challenges in healthcare, access to opportunities, and public services often intersect, I see enormous potential for AI to make a difference. I am motivated by the possibility of contributing to solutions that are not only developed for Africa, but also shaped by African expertise, priorities, and realities.
What are the key achievements or milestones you’re most proud of?
One of the achievements I am most proud of is building a career that connects scientific research with meaningful impact in public service. From earning my Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence to conducting research at Microsoft Research and the University of Pittsburgh, each experience has shaped my perspective on how technology can address complex real-world challenges.
In Morocco’s public sector, I have had the opportunity to translate this expertise into practice, contributing to data and AI initiatives that strengthen institutional capabilities and support better decision-making. Along the way, I have been fortunate to receive recognition for my contributions to both scientific research and public service, which has encouraged me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.
But beyond achievements, titles, and recognition, what makes me proudest is that I have built a path that reflects my own aspirations, without limiting myself to a single field or conventional career trajectory. And I hope that, through this journey, I can help create opportunities for others, particularly young African women, to pursue their ambitions on their own terms.
Can you share with us one personal quote or belief that guides you?
If the path you are looking for doesn’t exist, don’t be afraid to build it yourself!
What advice would you give to other young women who want to create impact?
Throughout my journey, I was often told that I needed to choose: academia or industry, research or professional practice. That I had to follow one path, specialize in one thing, and fit into a predefined role. But I have learned that you don’t have to choose between the different parts of who you are or what you aspire to become.
My advice to young women is simple: create your own path. If the path you are looking for doesn’t exist, don’t be afraid to build it yourself. You can be a researcher and a leader. You can work in government, contribute to science, and build your own initiatives. You don’t have to limit your ambitions to fit someone else’s definition of success.
Stay curious, embrace your different interests, and give yourself permission to evolve. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful!
And as you grow, remember to open doors for other women. Our achievements become even more meaningful when they create possibilities for those who come after us.
What are you currently working on or planning next?
One of my biggest ambitions is to build my own research institution in Africa, dedicated to advancing AI research and innovation that responds to the continent’s priorities, particularly in healthcare and other areas of societal impact. I envision a space where African researchers, especially young researchers and women, can access opportunities, collaborate across disciplines, and pursue ambitious scientific ideas without being limited by geography or access to resources. I want to help build an environment where research goes beyond publications and contributes to solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Alongside this ambition, I am continuing my work on AI, data governance, and digital transformation in public institutions, while seeking to develop stronger research collaborations and partnerships across Africa and internationally.
Ultimately, my goal is not only to contribute to research, but also to help build the structures and opportunities that will enable the next generation of African researchers to thrive.
How can people support or follow your work?
I am always open to connecting with individuals, research institutions, foundations, and organizations that share my vision for advancing research and innovation in Africa.
As I work toward establishing my own research institution, I particularly welcome opportunities for research grants, funding partnerships, and institutional support to help bring this vision to life. I am also interested in research collaborations, knowledge sharing, mentorship, and initiatives that create opportunities for young African researchers and women in technology.
I believe meaningful impact is built through collaboration, and I would love to connect with people and organizations interested in contributing to this journey.
You can connect with me on LinkedIn
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