In an ambitious move to redefine the role of artificial intelligence in governance and tourism, leading AI start-up Sensayis set to launch the world’s first AI-governed island off the coast of the Philippines.
Sensay Island, created by entrepreneur and Sensay CEO Dan Thomson, will operate under a government led entirely by AI-powered digital replicas of renowned historical figures. The cabinet includes Marcus Aurelius as President, Winston Churchill as Prime Minister, Nelson Mandela as Justice Minister, Eleanor Roosevelt as Foreign Affairs Minister, and Florence Nightingale as Health Minister, among others.
Each AI replica is designed to mirror the character, values and decision-making traits of the individual it represents. Drawing from historical writings, speeches and philosophies, these virtual leaders will debate and vote on policy proposals submitted by the public, in what Sensay describes as a “transparent, inclusive, and educational” form of governance.
“Sensay Island is a bold and exciting venture that will challenge modern conceptions of governance and policymaking in an unprecedented way,” said Thomson. “We aim to demonstrate how AI can facilitate decision-making that is free from partisanship, inefficiency and disillusionment.”
Members of the public will soon be able to register as E-residents of the island, proposing new policies through an open digital platform. These proposals will be discussed publicly by the AI cabinet before being refined and adopted into the island’s evolving constitution. The project is designed not only as an experiment in governance, but also as a compelling educational tool—giving citizens the chance to witness how timeless thinkers might approach modern problems.
The launch follows widespread concern over declining trust in politics. A recent study published in the British Journal of Political Science found that trust in parliaments has plummeted globally since 1990, with many voters feeling increasingly alienated by traditional forms of governance. Sensay believes that its AI approach can help restore confidence by offering transparent decision-making based on logic, historical wisdom, and open public participation.
But Sensay Island isn’t just about politics. It’s also being positioned as a blueprint for tourism innovation. The brand is inviting tourism boards globally to collaborate on creating immersive AI-powered visitor experiences. Using its proprietary Wisdom Engine, Sensay can bring local legends and cultural icons to life as interactive digital guides, storytellers and educators.
“For tourism boards, this is a game-changing opportunity,” said Thomson. “Imagine being able to offer guided tours from a digital version of your region’s most celebrated figures, or letting visitors interact with local heroes from the past. It’s about preserving cultural memory while creating connection—and ultimately inspiring more meaningful travel.”
Sensay already facilitates over 600,000 daily interactions through its AI replicas, and recently made headlines by hiring the world’s first AI full stack developer. The company recently closed a £2.5 million pre-seed funding round and plans to expand the use of its Wisdom Engine technology across governance, education, enterprise, and tourism.
Tourism partnerships are being actively explored, and organisations interested in co-developing AI-led experiences are encouraged to contact Sensay at info@sensay.io.
Sensay Island will open to public engagement in the coming weeks, as the company invites digital citizens around the globe to interact with its AI cabinet and shape its constitution from the ground up.
As a platform where artificial intelligence meets ancient wisdom, Sensay Island may just offer a glimpse into the future of policymaking—and place branding—in the digital age.