In a time when artificial intelligence increasingly shapes how we communicate, tools such as autocorrect, predictive text, content moderation, and translation features risk erasing the nuances, idioms, and cultural expressions that make language rich and diverse. JSerra Catholic High School senior Natalia Makhail is tackling that challenge head-on through a project designed to protect linguistic identity in the digital era.

Natalia was awarded a $10,000 Educational Merit Grant by MCA Computer Corporation for her project “Preserving Linguistic Identity in the Age of AI Automation.” Her research explores how common AI tools can unintentionally suppress nonstandard linguistic forms such as slang, code-switching, and culturally rooted expressions.

Her proposal poses an important question: Can AI systems evolve in ways that celebrate rather than narrow linguistic diversity? Natalia’s goal is to ensure that AI and language technologies amplify, rather than erase, cultural difference. In a digital age dominated by algorithmic suggestions and filters, her work challenges us to consider who decides what language is acceptable and how technology might shift that power.

As more of our communication is mediated by AI, the stakes are high for preserving not just words, but the histories, identities, and voices they carry. Natalia’s research adds an important voice to conversations about inclusive AI, computational linguistics, and cultural preservation.

Beyond her research, Natalia has demonstrated leadership by raising awareness of how technology shapes expression and inspiring her peers to think critically about its impact. She plans to continue exploring the intersection of linguistics, artificial intelligence, and cultural preservation in her college studies and beyond.