YOUTH-LED SOCIAL CHANGE technology-supported YOUTH-LED SOCIAL CHANGE in low-income communities leoburd@media.mit.edu -- 2003.09.03

Can technology help change this situation?

the Young Activists Network develop tools, methodologies and support structures to transform community technology centers into spaces where youth can identify and discuss issues that affect their neighborhood, collaborate with adults and other youth in the solution of those issues, get recognition for their efforts

key elements youth participation focus on neighborhood challenges human connectivity contextualized uses of technology storytelling recognition

where are we? Brazil Colombia Costa Rica India Mexico (2) Philippines (2) United States (2)

plans for 2003-2004 consolidate the network young activists task force young activists toolkit

the young activists task force provide support “from within” to network organizations, help enhance the model, build new tools and materials, outreach to new communities

the young activists toolkit make it easier for youth to implement their projects in the neighborhood, access relevant information, reflect about their work, communicate ideas, and get recognition “graphical wiki” “narrator” “personal database”

general exams “youth empowerment” “catalysts for a creative society” “digital divide”