Fei-Fei Li Attributes Her Immigrant Journey to Her AI Research Philosophy

November 24, 2025 - 00:41

Fei-Fei Li, often referred to as the "Godmother of AI," credits her immigrant experience as a pivotal influence on her innovative approach to artificial intelligence research. Growing up in a family of immigrants, Li's early life was marked by challenges that instilled resilience and a deep understanding of diverse perspectives. This background has driven her commitment to developing AI technologies that are not only advanced but also ethical and inclusive.

Li's journey began in an unexpected place—her family's dry-cleaning business, where she learned the values of hard work and perseverance. This foundation propelled her into the world of academia, where she has made significant contributions to AI, particularly in the fields of computer vision and machine learning.

Her startup, now valued at over $1 billion, reflects her vision of harnessing AI for the greater good. As she continues to lead in this rapidly evolving field, Li remains focused on ensuring that AI serves humanity and addresses societal challenges, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in shaping the future of technology.