Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1497622
5.12.19 12 OPINION 20.4.2023 Alexiei Dingli Prof Alexiei Dingli is a Professor of AI at the University of Malta and has been conducting research and working in the field of AI for more than two decades, assisting different companies to implement AI solutions. He forms part of the Malta.AI task-force, set up by the Maltese government, aimed at making Malta one of the top AI countries in the world The power of opportunity: A tribute to Professor Yorick Wilks W hen opportunities are scarce, and the path to success seems unattainable, a single act of kindness can change an individual's life. In my case, Professor Yorick Wilks, a dis- tinguished pioneer in Artificial Intelli- gence (AI), recognised my potential two decades ago and allowed me to pursue my Doctorate in the field. His faith in me transformed my life and taught me the value of extending opportunities to oth- ers. Growing up in Malta, I faced numer- ous challenges in furthering my stud- ies. Despite my passion for AI, com- puters were still rare at the time. Malta had limited educational opportunities; I couldn't keep studying locally because the courses did not exist, and obtaining a scholarship to go and study abroad was very hard, thus making it difficult for me to envision a future in AI. How- ever, after losing hope, faith brought me into contact with Professor Wilks. When everyone else turned a blind eye to me, he recognised my potential and immediately offered to become my su- pervisor. is allowed me to chase my dreams, and the rest is history. His unwavering support and mentor- ship throughout my Doctorate jour- ney were invaluable, but his continued guidance, even after I finished my stud- ies, truly impacted my life. Professor Wilks did not merely provide me with an opportunity to study; he became a lifelong friend, consistently encourag- ing me to strive for success and reach my full potential. It is because of his belief in me that I am where I am today. And for this, I will always be grateful. e power of opportunity cannot be understated. For many, it is the catalyst for personal and professional growth, igniting their passion for learning and opening doors to new possibilities. By giving someone a chance, you are in- vesting in their future and empowering them to realise their dreams. is is especially true in the world of academ- ia, where mentors like Professor Wilks play a critical role in shaping the lives and careers of their students. In my journey, I have understood the importance of extending opportunities to others, particularly when they may not have the means to access them. is realisation has driven me to be- come a mentor, sharing the knowledge and experiences I have gained with those who need it most. By mentoring others, we pass on our knowledge and create a ripple effect of opportunity. When we provide some- one with a chance to learn and grow, they, in turn, will likely do the same for others in the future. is cycle of support and mentorship has the poten- tial to impact countless lives, allowing individuals to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. is is what I try to do with my students. I push them hard because I care; I believe in them and want them to reach their full potential. It pains me when one of them does not achieve the intended goal. e story of Professor Wilks and the difference he made in my life is a tes- tament to the power of opportunity. His generosity and faith in my abilities have influenced not only my path but also the paths of those I have men- tored. In this way, his legacy lives on, and his impact on the world of AI con- tinues to be felt. We can extend opportunities to others in numerous ways, whether through mentorship, scholarships, or simply offering support. I've seen countless students wanting to give up just before crossing the finish line, but a word of encouragement helps them through. e key is to be mindful of our impact on other people's lives and seize any chance to make a difference. Sometimes, we may not be able to offer much in the way of assistance. However, there are times when we have the power to provide a life-chang- ing opportunity, and we must act in these moments. By opening doors for others and investing in their futures, we contribute to a more inclusive and diverse landscape where everyone has the chance to succeed. So let's embrace the power of oppor- tunity, enrich lives and inspire oth- ers to do the same. Whether through mentorship, scholarships, simple acts of kindness and encouragement or just by sending a smile, let us strive to leave a lasting impact on those around us, ensuring that the legacy of individuals like Professor Yorick Wilks continues to inspire and empower future gener- ations. Professor Yorick Wilks