Over 30 Digital Navigators gathered for a three-day facilitative leadership workshop at Bombyx Center for Arts and Equity, in Northampton. By day two, there was a palpable shift as the group workshopped skills and learned about resources directly applicable to their digital equity work and to the co-creation of the Western Mass Digital Navigator Network as a sustainable community of practice.

Lasharie Weems, DN Network Coordinator, observed:

“The DN Convening served as a vital platform for enhanced communication and collaboration within our Network, fostering a supportive environment that empowered individuals to exercise their leadership skills. We gained invaluable insights into the importance of embracing new perspectives, cultivating a deeper respect for diverse viewpoints, and finding the right balance between process, relationships, and outcomes. This shared learning experience has strengthened our network and equipped us with the tools to confidently navigate the future of Digital Navigation.”

Pictured directly above from L to R:
Erica Rachel Andrews, Co-Director and President, Springfield.Community
Keishla Archeval, Digital Equity Coordinator/Digital Navigator, Way Finders
Shannon Mumblo, Shannon Mumblo Consulting, Inc./Alliance for Digital Equity
Samuel Pascual, Digital Navigator, Pittsfield Community Television
Cherece Burston, Coordinator of Social Care and CHW Initiatives, Caring Health Center

Samuel Pascual — pictured above, posted on the DN Network Discord whiteboard about his experience:

“It was inspiring to see the broad range of communities that the Alliance has brought together to bridge the digital equity divide. I enjoyed stories of bringing resources and support through different channels but ultimately using shared tools of human compassion and concerted advocacy to empower fellow community members. Practicing those leadership skills with others helped me to feel confident that the network of facilitators was growing and evolving.”