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Last month, I had the incredible honor of presenting Mobile Pathways’ work on Pathfinder at the AI for Economic Opportunity Demo Day hosted by OpenAI and the Gitlab Foundation.Standing on that stage alongside 13 other nonprofit teams reminded me why I do this work—and why the future of AI for social good is so powerful.
During our pitch, I was proud to share the early impact Pathfinder is making in the lives of asylum seekers in New York City. Our Pathfinder AI platform is helping people obtain employment authorization documents (EADs) more quickly, and as a direct result, the asylum seekers in our pilot are earning substantially more, typically about 104% higher, with a trimmed average income increase of 161% across respondents. To know that our technology is contributing to economic stability for families is both humbling and motivating.
The event also offered a chance to connect with incredible leaders. I finally met Lawyers for Good Government’s founder, Traci Feit Love, a fierce advocate for justice and equality. Kiari, our Operations Specialist, and I reconnected with friends and supporters including Rodrigo Camarena from Justicia Lab, the Fast Forward team, and many others who continue to champion our work. Meeting the rest of the cohort in person was definitely a highlight—the passion and energy everyone brings to their projects was truly inspirational.
On a personal note, one of the most touching moments came right after I stepped off stage, when I was greeted with a big hug from Admas Kanyagia, a longtime supporter who has witnessed our team’s growth from the very beginning. Moments like that remind me just how strong and supportive this community really is.
Of course, no big event is complete without a lesson learned: don’t take a sip of water right before going on stage unless you want to risk wearing it!
Immigrant communities across the country are experiencing one of the most challenging times in history. Having the chance to raise our voices and share our team’s work with people who care deeply and want to make a difference was truly invaluable.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to OpenAI, GitLab Foundation, and the Ballmer Group for making this opportunity possible—and to every funder who dares to believe in the potential of early-stage, transformative ideas. A special thank you as well to Rebecca Gehman for her invaluable support and guidance as we prepared for the pitch.
We at Mobile Pathways are proud to be part of this movement toward a more equitable future. And personally, I am grateful to be able to stand alongside so many brilliant leaders working to ensure that AI isn’t just about efficiency or scale—it’s about justice, dignity, and opportunity for all.
