Do something. Believe me - I know that call, that drive. 12 years ago I turned my life upside down, changed careers to became a 'digital humanitarian', learned new skills, and converged with others on the complex journey to use data and tech for impact. 🧵 on some suggestions.
People before data/technology. (Full stop. Deep breath. Roll shoulders.) How will it help people in this emergency and others? I have gotten multiple notes on various social media platforms and really hope that that passion to do something can convert to action -now &over time.
Ask yourself - What are the skills, tools, and networks that I need to get involved? What do people really need from us? How will I also take care of myself and my people? Honestly, onboarding into digital, data & tech for impact is rocky and full of complexity. Start somewhere.
1. Join existing efforts - there are many groups (Civil society, humanitarian, development, and activists) who have local networks and understanding in Ukraine, Russia and the region. eg.#osint @TranslatorsWB, many #opensource #opendata groups. Ask where they need digital skills
2. Build with - have an idea and want to build a product/service? Great. Do your homework - NEED?, languages, research (duplication?), human-centered design, DPIA, #dataprotection, #digitalrisk, and timing. Start here civictech.guide & here digitalpublicgoods.net
3. Misinformation and disinformation: The world was already awash with this. Consider trusted networks & people. Learn about verification best practices & research. There are no shortage of organizations & people. Be safe. Observe. Question. @katestarbird verificationhandbook.com
3 a. Learn from previous efforts in crisismapping and responses. We are determined, tired, and maybe need fresh minds. e.g. thenewhumanitarian.org/report/92686/l…, digitalhumanitarians.com, and so many more articles, research, videos etc.
3 b. Digital Risk, Digital literacy, digital access. digital security, data protection, data literacy, and on and on - Deep breath. It is a lot. icrc.org/en/publication…
4. Help your neighbours or other people's neighbours? Getting support to people affected by crisis is critical - now & long into the future. Make plan. Can you donate $ and/or time to your <insert choice> trusted network/organization X location? Can your family sponsor someone?
5. Longer term - Get involved. Join a volunteer organization or institution. Many are in keen need of data and tech skills/support. There is a digital and data divide in this area. Patience. Most lack onboarding for digital volunteers. ifrc.org/article/what-w…
6. Change your life path/get your org more involved - Here be dragons and flowers. Many organizations are fundraising & implementing long overdue digital plans and need support - from corporate social impact offices (knowledge transfer is essential, pro bono) to changing jobs.
As much as the journey is rife with complexity, every contribution can be a gift with careful exploration and application. Many of us who have taken these paths want to help others make a difference.
7. Jobs - there are many social impact jobs across humanitarian, development, government and civil society groups. Follow the ict4djobs.com and Nick - linkedin.com/in/nicholascma…
Thanks for sharing with your networks and for the kind words
With credit- @civictechguide and @DPGAlliance
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