An initiative that focuses on increasing the IT literacy of senior residents while helping youth gain essential communication and employability skills, will launch this month in Capalaba.
It comes at an ideal time for senior residents who may have received smart technology for Christmas – such as a new smart phone, tablet or smart watch – and need some free advice on how to set it up.
The Tech IT Easy initiative, funded by Redland City Council, aims to connect generations by having local young people (aged 18-24) provide one-on-one technology support for older residents (aged 55 and over).
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It is a partnership between Council, social enterprise group Youngster.co and Capalaba Central Shopping Centre.
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said Tech IT Easy was free for senior participants and was designed to help them with everyday digital needs – from smartphones to social media.
“Under the program, older people learn new skills, while young people gain paid experience and confidence by providing one-on-one tech support,” the Mayor said.
The Mayor said the initiative supported several of Council’s strategic plans – Redlands Coast Stronger Communities Strategy 2024-2027, Redlands Coast Young People’s Action Plan 2024-2027 and Redlands Coast Age-friendly Action Plan 2021-2026.
“Council is creating stronger, more connected communities and fostering intergenerational respect and understanding by supporting digital inclusion,” she said.
“Tech IT Easy is one of the avenues that helps achieve this and Council is proud to be a partner in the program.
“The initiative also encourages the older participant to exchange a pearl of wisdom to the younger participant during the process.”
The Youngster.co program also aims to address loneliness and isolation for both generations, presenting a unique opportunity to form connections and learn valuable lessons from one another.
It will launch with a promotional day on Monday 12 January 2026, with sessions running from 19 January to 20 April on Mondays from 10am to noon at Capalaba Central Shopping Centre in The Circle (next to NAB).
Bookings are encouraged, but drop-ins are welcome subject to availability. For more details go to the youngster.co website.
