Kala Allen Omeiza

As the founder and CEO of I’m Heard, Inc., an organization advancing mental health and neurodiversity across diverse communities, and a U.S. Fulbright Scholar and Oxford-trained cognitive researcher, Kala Allen Omeiza has become a leading voice on neurodiversity and how human-centered technology can drive equitable systems change.

Her work utilizes the concepts of neurodiversity, emerging technology such as artificial intelligence, and thoughtful leadership strategy to help companies and institutions.

She currently facilitates the design and implementation of workplace tools and cultures that empower skeptical consumers, clients, and employees to embrace AI in their companies. She has collaborated with organizations including Google, Comcast, AFRY, Syracuse University, and the University of Oxford.

Omeiza was also named a finalist for Forbes 30 Under 30 for her novel strategy that raised funding for Nigeria’s first toll-free suicide hotline during her tenure as a Fulbright Scholar.

As a best-selling author, Omeiza has written three acclaimed books on culture, neurodiversity, AI implemenation, and psychological wellbeing, and her forthcoming works explore the intersection of AI ethics and inclusion.

Omeiza previously served as a research specialist at Duke University’s Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, and a research assistant at Harvard University and Harvard Medical School, where she contributed to groundbreaking studies on cognition, neurodiversity, and suicide prevention.

At Oxford, she wrote a literature review of how AI researchers can use cognitive neuroscience and autism research to achieve theory of mind in their systems. She also spearheaded a research project on AI aversion and appreciation within neurodivergent communities.

Omeiza is also an avid leader at her church, frequently holding workshops and talks with both leadership and congregants on topics such as mental health, neurodiversity, and disability inclusion. She combines insights from her research and books with her testimony and grounded scriptures.

Omeiza holds degrees from the University of Oxford and Miami University, where she was also a Division I athlete. Her work continues to expand across sectors to ensure that emerging technologies are designed not just for efficiency, but for humanity.