On Monday 28th April 2025, the Voluntary Action Islington office opened its doors to attendees of Superhighways’ Bring Your Own Tech day.
The venue was alive with activity, hosting multiple events at once, from a Digital Foundations focus group to a HEAR Network networking lunch. Between that, a stall at the Young Westminster Level Up Youth Conference, and the BYOT day, it was a jam-packed schedule.
The Superhighways team was definitely running on adrenaline and the warmth of the delightful spring sunshine (and maybe a little caffeine!).
What is a Bring Your Own Tech day?
Tech problems with laptops and software can be a real headache for small charities and community groups, especially when time and resources are already tight.
We know these organisations often juggle many priorities, but certain tech issues are often easier to fix in person than on a Teams call.
That’s why, in collaboration with HEAR Network and Refugee Council, we organise Bring Your Own Tech days.
These events allow us to provide crucial, face-to-face support to organisations that might otherwise struggle to keep up with their daily tasks.
This year, participants brought their own devices and received expert help from the Superhighways team, tackling a range of issues from camera malfunctions to slow PCs. We also took this opportunity to host specific one-to-one advice sessions with some of our participants.
Who attended?
We had a fantastic turnout with attendees from a variety of organisations:
- Chinese Information and Advice Centre
- Home-Start Lambeth
- Middle Eastern Women and Society Organisation
- Camden Disability Action
- Salem Health Project
- Ilays Organisation and Somali Diaspora UK
- Whittingham Roots and Shoots Gardening Club
We sorted out pesky device issues
We rolled up our sleeves and quickly got to work. Hardware was cleaned out, software was upgraded, and technical equipment was tested, with each solution bringing a fresh sense of vitality to these charities:
- Fixed laptops and ordered new parts
- Set up apps on iPads and phones
- Tested cameras and microphones
- Installed BIOS updates
- Restarted devices
- Cleared browsers and cache
Provided one-to-one training
We used this event to foster a culture of digital learning, offering guidance on advancements in AI, social media, and more:
- Explored how AI can create promotional content and images
- Set up a Facebook account and promoted their next event
- Looked into the London Poverty Profile
- Gave advice on file transfers
And connected with participants
The highlight of the day was being able to network with both new and familiar faces. Through conversations about the incredible work our participants do, we recognised the immense value of their roles. This made our digital support successes even more rewarding, acting as proof that by helping each other we can make the biggest difference.
Now, with faster devices, tidier storage systems, and fresh perspectives on digital tools, these organisations are better equipped to enhance their efficiencies and showcase their impact more effectively.
We hope to continue running events like this in the future. If it's something you'd like to take part in next time, get in touch! For further details keep an eye on our training page and subscribe to our newsletter.
