Abstract / Short Description (for review committees):

This session demonstrates how to build a context-aware, cross-cultural virtual assistant—the "Lagos<>Sheffield VibeBot"—using the Gemini API and a .NET backend on Google Cloud. I will walk developers through a practical, storytelling-driven journey: from grounding the AI with custom cultural data (exploring everything from Nigerian jollof to Sheffield's steel heritage) using Vertex AI Search, to deploying a scalable and optimized .NET application on Google Cloud Run.

Attendees will leave with a clear, replicable blueprint for creating their own intelligent, conversational agents that can tell compelling stories and connect communities. This talk moves beyond basic API calls to tackle real-world challenges like data grounding, performance optimization, and creating culturally nuanced user experiences. It’s a perfect fit for developers passionate about the creative and practical applications of modern AI.

Key Takeaways / Audience Benefits:

* Build a Conversational AI: Master the fundamentals of using the Gemini API to create rich, multi-turn dialogues in .NET.
* Ground AI in Your World: Learn to connect powerful AI models with custom, real-world data using Vertex AI Search for authentic responses.
* Master .NET on Google Cloud: Gain practical skills for deploying, scaling, and optimizing .NET applications on serverless infrastructure like Google Cloud Run.
* Tell Stories with Code: Discover a novel approach to application development that focuses on forging cultural connections and engaging users through narrative.