Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: 13550 106 Ave, Surrey, BC
Organizer: Somali People’s Association of BC
Funded by: Government of Canada – New Horizons for Seniors Program

Overview

The Somali People’s Association of British Columbia launched the Digital Bridges program with its first information session, welcoming Afro-Caribbean seniors to learn about upcoming digital literacy workshops. The session aimed to increase awareness and build trust within the community.

Key Activities
• Presentation & Welcome: Program coordinator opened the session with a land acknowledgement and an overview of the project.
• Community Engagement: Open discussion about seniors’ challenges with technology and what digital skills they hope to gain.
• Information Distribution: Flyers handed out and next session details announced.
• Hospitality: A warm atmosphere was created with tea, coffee, water, halal meals, fresh salads, fruit trays, pastries, and desserts.
• Photos & Consent: Group and individual pictures were taken with verbal consent for reporting purposes.

Attendance
• Total Attendees: 23
• Primary Audience: Afro-Caribbean and Somali-speaking seniors
• Support Team: 3 volunteers and 1 lead facilitator

Outcomes
• Strong interest in weekly training sessions
• Suggestions gathered: how to use WhatsApp, email, YouTube, translation apps, and safe browsing
• Multiple attendees requested one-on-one help or device setup support

Photos (Attached)
• Workshop in session
• Food and beverage setup
• Community engagement in action
• Smiling participants and volunteers

Next Steps
• Start hands-on training in mid-June
• Schedule one-on-one support days
• Prepare printed and translated tech handouts