Win-win skill exchange

By Sunny Liu

Now is the time for seniors to catch up with cutting-edge technologies during this year’s Victorian Seniors Festival.

Seniors are meeting with younger people at Library at The Dock on October 25 to exchange their life experiences with technology skills over some tea as part of the community initiative Tech, Tea and Tale.

Older people, who may be still coming to terms with modern technology, can attend the free workshop to learn to use smartphones and computers.

In return, they can share their stories and a lifetime of real-world experiences with the younger ones, known as “story collectors”.

As well as the practical lessons they receive, the workshop will also be a chance for seniors to reflect on and record some of the memorable events and experiences throughout their life.

The program is co-founded by social enterprises Lively and StoryPod, both dedicated to connecting the community.

Sophie Weldon, founder of StoryPod, said Tech, Tale and Tea would celebrate seniors’ personal values and wisdom.

“Unfortunately, older people are undervalued and are often isolated in our communities. We think older people should be celebrated and have the opportunity to connect with more people in the community,” she said.

Docklands was selected as the meeting point for older and younger participants due to its central location.

“Sometimes even dense areas can feel isolating. Spaces like The Dock Library have the potential to cultivate community because they can be a meeting place for people to connect in their otherwise busy lives,” Ms Weldon said.

“A lot of older people walk down the street without being noticed, but at our events they will be the centre of attention.”

The workshop in Docklands will be the launch event followed by a series of similar events. 10 tech-savvy young participants have been recruited to work at each technology workshop across Melbourne.

The workshop was piloted in regional and metropolitan areas and received overwhelming positive feedback. In Golden Plains Shire, an 85-year-old man fist pumped in the air because he was so excited to have finally learned how to use his smartphone.

This year’s Victorian Seniors Festival will see a variety of activities take place all across Victoria throughout October. Library at the Dock will become a festival hub for activities like Bollywood dance classes, free afternoon tea and free yoga classes for seniors.

The first Tech, Tea and Tale workshop will take place at Library at the Dock from 2pm to 4pm on October 25. Seniors can attend for free.