The Hi Digital Project Group Committee from the Irish Girl Guides led an intergenerational initiative that empowered girls and young women to take on a leadership role to empower older adults with essential digital skills.
Hi Digital has reached hundreds of older adults across Ireland. It aimed to support digital inclusion and social inclusion, addressing isolation among older adults while building confidence, communication, and leadership skills in young people. Irish Girl Guides were trained as “Digital Champions” and led community-based sessions where they supported older adults to build confidence using technology in a friendly, informal environment. The greatest impact was from bringing generations together as equals. Young people share their digital knowledge, while older adults share their life.
“I loved getting to bond with and help older people in my community, especially because it’s not a group I’d usually get the chance to spend time with. I really enjoyed hearing all their stories and learning about their lives. Some of my favourite moments were when they’d ask me a question and I could help them do something on their device that seems simple to us, but made a real difference to them.” - Ruby, Aged 16, Clogherhead Senior Branch Member
During these sessions, the Digital Champions provided one-to-one and small group support, which included learning how to use smartphones and tablets, sending messages and emails, accessing online services, and staying connected with family and friends through digital platforms. However, the sessions were centred around conversation and relationship-building as much as learning, a space where people laughed, shared stories, solved problems together and reduced loneliness.
“Each and every one of our members who attended the sessions had the highest praise for the experience. Not only did they gain valuable knowledge in how to use their phones and tablets, but they genuinely enjoyed every session. There was a real sense of fun and community throughout.” - Patricia Brennan, Chairperson of Bohermeen Active Retirement
In addition to delivering sessions, the girls and young women are actively involved in planning, organising, and adapting activities. They responded to the needs of participants, adjusted their teaching approaches, and built strong interpersonal connections, demonstrating leadership, empathy, and problem-solving skills throughout.
“In guiding the older generation, our youth members not only share their knowledge but also strengthen their own leadership foundations, developing confidence, communication, and the ability to plan and deliver meaningful learning experiences. It is leadership in action, built across generations.” - Róisín Mills, Irish Girl Guides Programme & Training Commissioner
Guides Bridging the Digital Divide was awarded the Olave Award in 2026 for demonstrating Intergenerational Leadership in action, moving from Youth Participation to Youth Leadership.
“When we invest in girls, everyone benefits. Older adults became more confident and independent in a digital world, while girls developed confidence, communication, empathy and leadership skills that will stay with them long after the programme ends.” – Dara Callanan, Irish Girl Guides Leader
To learn more about the programme, click here: https://irishgirlguides.ie/what-is-hi-digital/