Revolutionizing Indigenous language preservation with AI
AI Anima is an Indigenous-led initiative dedicated to building a modern language and knowledge model that learns, processes, and communicates primarily in Cree, supporting revitalization, education, and the continuity of Cree worldview into the age of artificial intelligence. Our research contributes to a range of advanced AI applications designed for native speakers, new speakers, and everyone in between.
​Applications of this work include language learning tools, conversational companions, entertainment, and community-controlled digital knowledge platforms. As the model matures, it will support community programming, create employment pathways for Indigenous youth, and contribute to broader conversations about Indigenous data sovereignty and ethical AI. ​
AI Anima is currently working on the Swampy Cree dialect of Cross Lake, Manitoba.
Our framework is scalable to other interested communities.
Project History
Oski Tahkoskewin is an Indigenous-led non-profit corporation, founded in 2017 to partner with First Nations education departments in delivering culturally grounded programming.
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Oski Tahkoskewin’s first programs were land-based education camps. As participant interest in language learning grew, the program expanded to include a basic Cree language web and mobile app in 2020. Built single-handedly, without funding, on a low-code and low-cost stack, the app featured a small text-and-audio vocabulary database, English-to-Cree search, flashcards, and study tools. Rather than continuing to maintain or incrementally expand this early product, the organization started to explore more ambitious approaches to technology-assisted language preservation. That exploration led to the creation of the AI Anima project, an effort to build a more robust, scalable, and community-rooted language technology platform.