This fall, with support from the Neighbourhood Small Grant, I hosted a series of community workshops in Richmond designed to help neighbours connect, learn, and grow together through technology. Our goal was simple — to bring people of different ages together, share knowledge, and create joy while learning new digital skills.
We offered small-group sessions focused on iPhone basics and video creation. Many participants were seniors or newcomers who wanted to better understand their phones — how to take clear photos, organize albums, and use simple editing tools. As confidence grew, we moved into storytelling through videos, where participants learned to combine their favourite photos, music, and memories into short clips they could share with family and friends.
Planning the project required balancing accessibility and comfort. I wanted everyone to feel supported, regardless of experience level. We chose a welcoming community space and limited class size so that every participant could receive one-on-one help. Preparing step-by-step guides and visual examples also made learning smoother.
What made this project truly special was the atmosphere of laughter and encouragement that developed. People weren’t just learning about technology — they were connecting, sharing life stories, and building friendships. I remember one participant proudly showing a video she made of her garden, saying it was the first time she’d ever made something digital on her own. Another helped a neighbour create a slideshow for her grandson’s birthday. Those moments captured the heart of what this project was about — empowerment and togetherness.
Through this experience, I learned how meaningful community learning can be when knowledge is shared with patience and joy. Technology became more than a tool; it became a bridge between generations and cultures. The success of this project has inspired me to continue hosting creative, skill-building workshops where people can learn, laugh, and grow — together.
