Karim or Karim

Karim or Karim

22nd April, 2025

With the rapid rise in AI tools in our daily lives, we’re witnessing a clear divide: some people are already addicted, others are still exploring, and some are in denial altogether. But one thing is sure: we are entering a new era where authenticity is becoming harder to recognize.

These days, you might find yourself wondering: Did my colleague write this email, or did ChatGPT generate it? It’s no longer just about people imitating others’ styles; now, many may not be writing at all.

Personally, what frustrates me most is when people aren’t authentic in how they express themselves in writing, speaking, or even thinking. And with AI, the challenge has grown. It’s no longer just a matter of someone copying another's tone; it’s the complete outsourcing of thought and voice.

Are you truly you? Or are you a chatbot in disguise?

To be clear, I’m not against AI; it’s a powerful enabler when used with purpose. But it needs limits. It should complement us, not replace our originality or unique ways of thinking and communicating.

Over the past 10 days, I’ve attended several discussions on how to use AI meaningfully, and one concern has stood out: the massive energy consumption of these tools. Should we really be spending that energy turning 1,000 photos into “Ghibli-style” just because we can?

I’m proud that at Meirc, we’ve proposed adding an Artificial Intelligence (AI) category to our offerings not to jump on the trend but to educate professionals on using AI effectively, ethically, and with intention in their careers.

Because the future is not just about using AI; it’s about using it without losing ourselves.

About the Author
Karim Salem, MBA, PMP®, PMI-ACP®, GPM-b™

Deputy Director – Client Relations
Head of Managed Learning Solutions

Karim Salem, MBA, PMP®, PMI-ACP®, GPM-b™, is Deputy Director – Client Relations | Head of Managed Learning Solutions at Meirc Training & Consulting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a multidisciplinary background spanning project management, business development, events, sales, and corporate learning, he works closely with organizations across the Middle East to support strategic partnerships, capability development, and growth initiatives. Karim holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Power Engineering from Ain Shams University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship through a joint international program between EU Business School, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), and London Metropolitan University. He is certified as a PMP®, PMI-ACP®, and GPM-b™ professional and is actively involved in volunteering and professional initiatives, including with the Project Management Institute. Earlier in his career, Karim co-founded a project management consultancy firm, reflecting his entrepreneurial mindset and passion for practical, value-driven solutions. Through his role at Meirc Training & Consulting and volunteering initiatives, he has also contributed to workshops and awareness sessions focused on project management, LinkedIn branding, sales, and business development. In recognition of his leadership and community impact, Karim was selected by the British Council as one of the top Arab youth changemakers through the GlobalChangeMakers® program. He became the first Egyptian to serve as President of a Rotaract® Club in the UAE. He is passionate about professional growth, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and building meaningful connections that create long-term impact.

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