A World of Difference that Could Make a Difference to the World
The Power of Generative AI
By Samantha Pillay
I’m thrilled to share my latest creation—a one-minute animated video that brings to life the pages of my picture book When I'm a President. This video, with its vibrant animation and catchy soundtrack, was designed to captivate and inspire young minds, particularly those of 4-8-year-old girls who might one day dream of becoming the President of the United States. But beyond the animation and melody lies a deeper story about the power of technology, the democratization of content creation, and the boundless possibilities it offers to creators like myself.
Generative AI is changing the landscape of creative industries, democratizing filmmaking in ways we could have only imagined a few years ago. As a self-published author, I don’t have access to a Hollywood budget or a full-scale production team. However, with the help of AI, I was able to create a professional-quality video that might otherwise have never existed.
AI doesn’t just lower the barriers to entry; it also means that content like mine isn’t constrained by the biases of big money and traditional gatekeepers. In a world where media is often driven by what’s profitable, AI gives creators the freedom to explore new ideas, voices, and perspectives. This technology allows anyone with a vision and a message to reach audiences far and wide, breaking down barriers that once stood in the way of creativity.
In my case, AI has enabled me to extend the reach of When I'm a President beyond the pages of the book. Through this video, I hope to connect with children and adults alike, inspiring them with the story of leadership and empowerment.
Reaching Beyond the Pages
Imagine a young woman, perhaps a teacher, aunt, or mentor, scrolling through videos on her tablet. She stumbles upon my animated video, her attention captured by the colorful scenes and the uplifting tune. Intrigued, she decides to purchase the book as a gift for a young girl in her life. As she reads the book herself, the affirmations and ideas about leadership begin to percolate in her mind, planting the seeds of what true leadership means. This realization sets her on a path to become a leader in her own right—perhaps in her community, workplace, or even on a larger stage.
As she becomes a role model for the young girl, the seeds of leadership and self-belief are planted in the child as well. Through reading the book together and discussing what makes a good leader, the young girl is in turn inspired to become a leader. The story and its impact create a ripple effect, fostering a future generation of women who will lead with confidence and conviction.
Self-belief and leadership qualities often begin forming early in life, but they can also be sparked later, by the right inspiration. Through this video and the book, I hope to reach that one woman who might be inspired to see herself as a leader and to pass that inspiration on to the next generation. It’s a story that could resonate for years, long after the video has ended and the book has been put down.
Breaking Gender Stereotypes
The importance of early intervention in breaking down career gender stereotypes cannot be overstated. Studies show that these stereotypes begin forming as early as five years old, and they can significantly influence the choices children make about their future careers. When I'm a President is designed to challenge those stereotypes, presenting the idea that leadership is not just for men but for anyone with the passion and drive to lead.
By bringing this book to life through animation, I’m hoping to reach a broader audience and reinforce this critical message. The video, much like the book, portrays a strong, confident female leader—an image that I hope will stay with young girls as they grow up, helping to shape their ambitions and career aspirations.
The Impact of the Music
People love the soundtrack. It’s catchy, and it appeals to both adults and children. The tune has a way of sticking with you, reinforcing the message of the book through music. We’d love to hear your thoughts on it! Here are the lyrics if you want to sing along:
When I’m the President
Verse 1:
♪ Beyond the glass ceiling, we rise ♪
♪ Hope reflecting in our eyes ♪
♪ Breaking through the midnight skies ♪
♪ Change is coming, no surprise ♪
Chorus:
♪ Leading the way ♪
♪ Shining brighter than day ♪
♪ In the land of the free ♪
♪ She’s our liberty ♪
Verse 2:
♪ With courage, strength, and grace she stands ♪
♪ Uniting hearts across these lands ♪
♪ From coast to coast, hand in hand ♪
♪ Together we will take a stand ♪
Chorus:
♪ Leading the way ♪
♪ Shining brighter than day ♪
♪ In the land of the free ♪
♪ She’s our liberty ♪
This song isn’t just an accompaniment to the visuals; it’s an anthem for young girls and women who are told through music that they can lead, inspire, and change the world. It’s a message that I hope will resonate, encouraging them to dream big.
Conclusion
As I reflect on the journey that led to the creation of this video, I hope that this simple, one-minute animation might find its way into the hands of someone who needs to hear its message—whether that’s a young girl dreaming of her future or an adult who still has dreams to realize. I hope that long after I’m gone, When I'm a President will continue to inspire and empower, helping to shape the leaders of tomorrow.
Generative AI has broadened the reach of my message, enabling it to touch more lives than I ever could have imagined. This is the world of difference that could truly make a difference to the world.