Digital Ambassador Meti Behailu assisted Mary Tripp in learning how to operate her new blood pressure monitor. Tripp, a 73-year-old retiree, was grateful for the help provided by the Digital Ambassadors’ monthly Advice About Your Device session. She praised the young ambassadors, saying, “What impresses me most is that these young people are skilled, curious, patient, and they don’t roll their eyes at you!”
The Digital Ambassadors program, run by the City, is comprised of high school students who have completed the Raleigh Digital Connectors program. Meti Behailu, a 16-year-old student at Leesville Road High School, expressed her joy in participating in the program, stating, “It makes me feel happy. I like helping people and hearing their stories. This combines both. I get to hear about their journey while helping them with their issues they’re having with their device.”
The one-on-one help sessions were initiated by Yanira Campos, the Digital Inclusion program manager, who was inspired by her own experiences with her mother’s questions about technology. Campos recognized that many people face similar difficulties and believed that this program could bridge the gap and assist others. She explained, “I think this helps fill in the gaps and helps us to help others.”
The impact of the program is evident when speaking to individuals like Carolyn Moore, who sought assistance in uploading a profile picture to Zoom. Moore expressed her deep appreciation for the program, stating, “I really, really appreciate this. These are smart kids and I just wish I could carry them around with me every day. I’ll definitely be back!”
The Digital Ambassadors’ program is a valuable resource for individuals who require assistance with their devices. Through the dedication and skills of these young ambassadors, many residents, like Mary Tripp and Carolyn Moore, have found the help they needed to navigate the world of technology. The program highlights the importance of bridging the technology gap and the positive impact that young individuals can have in their community.
To learn more, click on this link: https://raleighnc.gov/community/news/digital-ambassadors-help-bridge-technology-gap
