by Glen Herbert
I recently asked an artificial intelligence search engine—it was pi.ai—who I am. “Who is Glen Herbert?” It said that I’ve worked as a writer, which is true, and that “he has contributed to various publications.” It also said that I’ve had a successful career as a radio broadcaster with the CBC, which isn’t true, though I wish it was. “Glen Herbert played a significant role in providing humanitarian relief to Belgium during World War I.” Um, nope.
Not all AI search engines are a spotty as that one, but even with the errors, it can be interesting to see what the internet picks up on. I asked Perplexit (a far more reliable app than pi) questions about Bequia, just to see what it would say. It recommends Cheri’s Rooftop Terrace—love that—and that it takes 45 minutes to hike up Ma Peggy.
I also asked about people, just to see what it would say, which got me to this: “Who is Solana Gooding?”
It starts by saying that “Solana Gooding is a notable figure from Bequia, part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.” That’s true. If you were asked for notable people from Bequia, Son Mitchell would probably come first. But I love that Perplexity says that Solana is notable. Because she absolutely is.
It continued, “Notably, she launched a campaign to collect textbooks for students in need, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities within her community.”
Perplexity doesn’t comment on the food aid she distributes, or the wellness visits, or the houses she’s been helping get repaired after the hurricane. It doesn’t talk about the time she’s spent on the phone sourcing corrugated iron to repair roofs, something she’s been doing with Zoe Cordice and Patrick Hutchins, who are also notable Bequians, along with other members of Rise up Bequia.
It goes on. “This initiative not only provided essential learning materials but also fostered a sense of collaboration among residents, showcasing her ability to mobilize support for important causes.”
So true, but mostly the part about her ability to mobilize support. She’s a quiet force most of the time, and a loud one when she has to be. (Remember the covid posts on Facebook?)
“In addition to her community work, Solana is the owner of Solana’s, a shop located in Port Elizabeth.” It’s a little shop, but give it half a day and the whole world will pass through. “Her dual roles as a business owner and community advocate highlight her dedication to both economic development and social welfare in Bequia.” Yes, bang on.
Perplexity also has something to say about her mom. “Her mother, Carmette Gooding, is also a well-known figure on the island, further emphasizing the family’s deep roots and influence in local affairs.”
If you doubt the power of artificial intelligence, this is what Perplexity ends with: “Through her efforts, Solana Gooding exemplifies how local leaders can effect change and support their communities through both business initiatives and charitable actions.”
Yes, yes, and yes. Bequia is a small island in a small country, but Solana is an example that we all have something to give, and can effect change, no matter where we’re from or how far we are from wherever else. And it’s great that the internet knows it.
We all leave behind an electronic trail. To see who the internet thinks you are, Perplexity is the most reliable. For fun, if not very reliable or accurate, try pi.ai.
grenadinesinitiative.ca 