Digital inclusion is a critical and often overlooked aspect of modern society, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, has access to and can effectively use digital technologies. My journey towards understanding and advocating for digital inclusion has been shaped by two powerful stories and quotes, each highlighting the profound impact that technology can have on individuals’ lives and the broader community.
Story 1: “When you do not intentionally, deliberately include…you will unintentionally exclude.”
This quote, which I saw during my visit to Microsoft’s Inclusive Gaming Lab in Seattle in May 2018, significantly shifted my perspective on digital inclusion.
The lab on the Microsoft campus was focused on creating gaming experiences that were inclusive, meaning inclusion and equity were built in at the design stage. During an inspirational afternoon, we witnessed:
- How military veterans who had lost limbs in combat could play Xbox games and stay connected with friends.
- How Microsoft’s Adaptive Controller allowed children with disabilities to play the same games on an equal footing with friends.
- A remarkable video of a blind man playing a game through sound alone – and beating a fully sighted person!
I still get goosebumps just thinking about that afternoon.
Story 2: “You kids buying me the iPad was one of the best things. It’s helped me stay connected, learn and just keep my mind active. Thank you.” – My mum, towards the end of the pandemic, 2022.
In early 2020, my mum came to Singapore for her 6-week winter break from the UK to visit me. Soon after, the borders closed, and 6 weeks became more than two years as she got stuck in Singapore during the pandemic.
Like most of us, she leaned into technology through Covid. But as an 83-year-old, it was amazing to see her:
- Use FaceTime to stay connected with family and friends around the world.
- Teach cooking classes on Zoom during the lockdown.
- Learning recipes herself from YouTube (you’re never too old to learn!)
- Watch religious and spiritual shows and ceremonies on YouTube.
- Track her daily walks and sleep with a Fitbit. She put us kids and grandkids to shame, clocking up 10,000 steps a day!
Now 85 and back in the UK, she still walks twice a day and uses technology to stay connected and keep her mind active.
These experiences – from the gaming lab experiences to my mother’s digital empowerment – seeded my interest and commitment to digital inclusion.
In a world advancing towards AI, ensuring everyone, especially the least tech-savvy, remains included is not just a necessity but a responsibility. It’s about meaningful connectivity and inclusion for all.
Our efforts towards inclusion in gender, race, and other areas are incomplete without digital inclusion. Lacking digital skills and access hinders personal and societal progress. True inclusion in our interconnected world is impossible without digital literacy and access.
