Totem Learning launches Sona AI: Transforming how organisations build communication skills at scale

Totem Learning, a leader in immersive learning design, has launched Sona AI, a groundbreaking tool that empowers employees to master difficult conversations through safe, scalable, AI-powered practice.

As organisations face increasing pressure to demonstrate the ROI of learning, improve soft skills, and support hybrid teams, Sona AI offers a bold new approach. By combining behavioural science, advanced AI, and over two decades of learning design expertise, Sona helps employees build the communication skills that matter most in today’s workplace.

Sona AI is purpose-built for L&D professionals who need more than just compliance training. It empowers learning teams to deliver emotionally intelligent, adaptive learning experiences that mirror the unpredictability of real human interactions. With integrated analytics, secure deployment across any device or location, and a rapid authoring tool on the horizon, Sona offers a scalable solution for organisations ready to invest in their people’s communication skills.

What sets Sona apart is its emotionally intelligent, unscripted dialogue with lifelike AI personas. This is training that talks back, adapting in real time to learners’ responses, challenging them with realistic reactions, and guiding them through complex, high-stakes conversations. Whether giving feedback, coaching a peer, or navigating conflict, learners gain confidence, empathy, and fluency in a safe environment.

Helen Routledge, CEO of Totem Learning, said:

“We created Sona because we believe people shouldn’t have to learn the hard way. Everyone deserves a safe space to practice the tough stuff before it becomes real and every leader deserves the confidence of knowing their teams are ready. Traditional learning often feels static and impersonal. Sona brings humanity back into digital learning by creating space to get it wrong safely, so people can get it right when it counts.”

The development of Sona AI has been supported by two innovation initiatives. Initial research and prototyping were funded by Ufi VocTech Trust, an independent funder focused on unlocking the full potential of technology to get adults learning. This foundation was then built upon through additional funding from the Innovate UK Coventry and Warwickshire Launchpad programe, backing Totem Learning to scale Sona AI’s real-world impact.

Jane Holmes, Associate Director of Grants at Ufi VocTech Trust, said:

“We’re thrilled to see how Totem Learning is using technology to tackle real workplace challenges. Sona AI is a brilliant example of how innovative learning tools can make communication skills more accessible, more human, and more impactful”

Stacy O’Connor, Digital Creative Industry & Inward Investment Specialist at Invest Warwickshire, said:

“Sona AI is a fantastic example of the innovation and creativity thriving in Coventry and Warwickshire’s digital sector. We’re proud to support Totem Learning as they bring pioneering technologies like Sona AI to market, helping businesses build critical communication skills for the future of work.”

To learn how Sona AI can transform your learning strategy and build a more confident, capable workforce, visit www.totemlearning.com/sona-ai to book a free strategy session.