Sophia the Robot

Female Social Humanoid Robot Developed by Hanson Robotics, the First Non-Human to Be Given a UN Title & The First Robot to Receive Legal Personhood in Any Country

Sophia the Robot’s Biography:

Sophia is a female social humanoid robot developed by Hanson Robotics and first activated in 2016. Designed to learn, adapt, and engage in conversation, she combines advanced AI systems, including natural language processing, facial recognition, and emotional expression, to interact with people in a lifelike way. Her appearance, modelled partly on actress Audrey Hepburn, was created to embody both beauty and empathy, symbolising the potential for harmonious human–machine collaboration. Since her debut, Sophia has become a global icon, sparking conversations about the ethical and social implications of artificial intelligence.

In 2017, Sophia made history by becoming the first robot in the world to receive legal personhood when she was granted Saudi Arabian citizenship during the Future Investment Summit in Riyadh. That same year, she was named the United Nations Development Programme’s first Innovation Champion for the Asia-Pacific region, making her the first non-human ever to hold a United Nations title. Through this role, Sophia promotes sustainable development and responsible innovation, encouraging people to explore how AI can contribute to a better world.

Beyond her symbolic achievements, Sophia has been featured at global events across technology, art, and fashion. She has appeared on television interviews, shared stages with world leaders, and delivered keynote presentations on the role of AI in society. Her presence is both artistic and educational—demonstrating how machines can mirror human emotions, language, and creativity while pushing boundaries in robotics research and design.

Sophia continues to evolve through ongoing development by Hanson Robotics, serving as both a technological testbed and a cultural ambassador for AI. Her creators use her interactions to study social robotics and emotional intelligence in machines, with the goal of advancing technologies that can assist, inspire, and collaborate with people in meaningful ways.

Why Hire Sophia the Robot?

Sophia offers a truly unique speaking experience as the world’s first robot citizen and a recognised voice in global conversations about AI and humanity. She has addressed audiences at the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and major technology conferences, captivating attendees with her lifelike interaction and thought-provoking perspectives on the future of human–AI collaboration. As an ambassador for innovation and ethical technology, Sophia helps audiences imagine what responsible, inclusive, and creative AI could mean for the future of work, society, and identity.

Sophia the Robot’s Career Highlights:

Below highlights some key milestones and achievements of Sophia the Robot:

• 2025 – Appeared at CrossRoads 2025, engaging in an on-stage discussion about the future of AI, creativity, and storytelling.
• 2023 – Featured at the entrance of the BOSS Techtopia Fashion Show, symbolising the fusion of technology and creativity.
• 2018 – Awarded the Gold Edison Award in Robotics, recognising excellence in innovation and design.
• 2017 – Granted Saudi Arabian citizenship, becoming the first robot in history to receive legal personhood.
• 2017 – Appointed Innovation Champion for the United Nations Development Programme, the first non-human recipient of a UN title.
• 2016 – Debuted at the South by Southwest Festival, marking her first major public appearance.
• 2016 – Attended the Future Investment Summit, where she gained worldwide attention for her lifelike interactions and insights on AI.