Human connections in digital spaces

At a time when everyone is feeling isolated, some groups are more affected than others. Among the many pivots UTS has undergone in the past 18 months to cope with COVID and its effects, our work to support our local communities has changed dramatically in response. 

Senior citizens are one of the groups most affected by COVID lockdowns; the internet has become the primary source of news, local information, services, and social connection, making it more important than ever for seniors to access online spaces. Without digital access or skills, some seniors are unable to adapt to the 'new normal’ online environment, putting them at risk of further isolation and disadvantage. At the same time, UTS international students have been cut off from family and going through financial hardship, with many having lost work and unable to access government support.

The Digital Mentoring Program employs international students to mentor seniors in Glebe to reduce social isolation for both groups, provide an income for students while developing their skills; and increase residents’ confidence and access to digital services, information and networks. 

‘It’s an example of innovative action that thoughtfully considers the needs of two groups within the UTS precinct. The program also prepares students for careers after graduation and guiding them to see careers in the social justice and social impact field as viable options,’ says Elaine Laforteza, Social Impact Practitioner at the Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion. 

Four out of the five original mentors from the 2020 program have since gone on to other paid employment. They have cited the program as being crucial in getting them the role. 

‘The Digital Mentoring Program was the actual key for me to get this job. Because it helped me gain confidence in the English language. My English language communication was very bad last year. Now it’s way more improved,’ said one mentor. 

Following the successful pilot, a second round of the program – funded by the City of Sydney grant – ran from March 2021 in Glebe, Camperdown, Pyrmont and Ultimo. UTS employed five mentors to support 40 mentees in regular group sessions over 12 weeks. 

‘It had become desperately obvious that I needed help with the new digital normal and I had the great good luck to be introduced to the UTS Digital Mentoring Program. With a supportive, persistent, and calm approach [my mentor] has been able to [teach me] the interactive digital touch screen world of smart phone and iPad with the revelation of apps…. unbelievable. What a relief! Coming from someone coping with post-stroke issues, this is particularly important to me, even life affirming,’ says one mentee. 

‘Human connections can fall by the wayside with increased moves to greater connectivity in digital spaces,’ says Elaine. 

‘The program provides support and education for people needing to navigate digital devices and spaces, while still cultivating intergenerational and cross-cultural connections between mentors and mentees.’ 

Shravani Priya’s experience as a Digital Mentor shows how important these connections are to everyone. She says, ‘the digital mentoring program is very special to me and it has been a wonderful experience. Having been a part of the program since the first phase, it gives me immense joy that I am able to help the community and contribute to their learning. The change for me was to appreciate the things that might be small and easy for me but might seem daunting and hard for the elderly. Something as small as making a video call … to see their dear ones during these tough times can bring so much happiness to the mentees.’ 

‘Being able to help them adapt to the technical world and bring them these little joys has been an absolute pleasure.’ 

‘Genuine commitment to activating the university as an essential, supportive and accessible institution within our local precinct is evident in the way UTS has engaged with stakeholders, individuals and groups. Throughout the process, UTS has listened and responded to community needs, and adopted a nuanced, place-based approach to tackling the unique circumstances affecting our local area. We are proud to partner with them,’ says Kyle Weibe, Community Development Officer, Mission Australia.