Jen's Journal

How have information and communication technologies been utilized to connect, engage and empower youth in developing countries? What are the ways that development organizations can improve the ways that they reach out to and support youth as agents of change? On January 15th, over 200 participants from the Netherlands were convened by IICD, One World and HIVOS to discuss these very questions. I had the privilege of being invited to kick off the event as the opening keynote speaker.

Following my presentation, the Open Space Technology facilitation format was utilized and the following questions were set as the focus:

1. How can we strengthen digital natives in developing countries?

2. How can we mobilize digital natives in developing countries to contribute to development?

3. What could be the role of development aid organisations?

My objective was to inspire the imagination and scope of possibility for participants while providing context on the ways that digital natives are utilizing new media and technology to create change and implement community development projects. I provided a summary of the various six archetypes of young change makers and proposed six related approaches that development organizations can take in order to support young change makers.

Here’s the summary:

1. Showcase: create platforms to allow the Dreamers to express their hopes, concerns & ideas!

2. Amplify: help to spread the messages of the Megaphones rather than see those who are vocal as a threat.

3. Connect: expand the networks of the Spark Plugs so that they can access decision-makers with influence.

4. Co-organize: partner up with the Task Masters as you plan your campaigns, events and projects.

5. Mentor: share your leadership challenges and experiences with the Sherpas to expand their wisdom and perspective.

6. Listen: dialogue with a sense of empathy and openness with the Storytellers without imposing your views.

Overall, I had a stimulating day and loved interacting with people!