Lebanese director creates AI persona to amplify voices of people with disabilities
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In Lebanon, director Sam Saad created “Halem,” a 19-year-old virtual person with a disability, using artificial intelligence.
Saad developed the persona as part of his work with the “Idafa” festival, which supports people with disabilities through awards and events. He intends for Halem to participate in media appearances and festival events, offering encouragement and showcasing achievements to others facing challenges. Saad collaborated with Bilal Kasassir, a technology company owner in Saudi Arabia, to design Halem.
The character’s appearance draws inspiration from Saad’s own son, including specific features like his eyes and a birthmark. Halem is not a robot but a “human-like” virtual being meant to simulate human characteristics. Beyond visibility, Saad envisions Halem aiding speech therapy and other treatments for people with disabilities, leveraging the capabilities of AI. He plans for Halem to host a talk show or podcast, interviewing others with disabilities and sharing their stories.
A duet, titled “100 Dreams,” written by composer Ziad Jamal, is also in development, and Halem recently extended a greeting via video to “Farah,” a digital speaker created by the Jordanian government.
