Connecting young Western Australians with technology and digital services is the mission behind a new partnership between Hello Initiative and Kinetic IT.
Hello Initiative is a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping marginalised communities, particularly young Western Australians leaving incaceration, to access technology and digital services.
The charity is focused on providing a range of technology-related services, including access to mobile devices and software, training and support, and assistance with tasks such as online job applications and government services.
These services can be critical for individuals who may not have the financial means or technical expertise to navigate the complexities of the digital world.
Ashleigh Small, Co-Founder of Hello Initiative, said the non-profit was delighted to be partnering with Kinetic IT.
“This support will be instrumental in helping us to reach more people and make a bigger impact. Together, we can ensure that technology is a tool for inclusivity and empowerment, rather than a barrier.”
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The partnership announcement coincided with both National Volunteer Week and World Telecommunication and Information Society Day; the latter is a day the United Nations has observed since 1969. The 2023 theme is about raising awareness of the important role telecommunications and information communication technologies (ICT) can play in supporting people to stay healthy, connected, and independent.
Jessica Todd, Senior Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Kinetic IT, said the partnership brought to life the company’s vision to enhance our way of life through technology. With Hello Initiative’s focus in Western Australia, young people who find themselves involved in the criminal justice system will have greater access to the essential tools needed to re-connect with community following incarceration.
“It’s my honour to announce Kinetic IT’s new partnership with the Hello Initiative, aiming for greater technology and digital services outcomes for Western Australians. As Kinetic IT was founded in WA, it’s a great opportunity to give back in the place where we started.”
Lyle Hart, an Account Director within Kinetic IT’s Defence, Emergency Services and Corrections portfolio, said the new partnership resonated with the desire of crew to give back.
“Working with Defence, Emergency Services and Corrections customers, we see first-hand every day the challenges our communities face. In supporting Hello Initiative, we are set to play a small but practical part in supporting young people to take part in society and communicate with loved ones, friends, and the wider community.”
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This partnership sees Kinetic IT provide enabling support to Hello Initiative to provide resources to individuals that may otherwise struggle to access them. This includes ongoing financial sponsorship as well as donating refurbished smart devices including mobile phones and laptops.
By leveraging its customer networks, Jessica said Kinetic IT hoped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people who may be disadvantaged due to factors such as income, geography, or disability.
“At Kinetic IT, we believe that technology has the power to create positive change in the world, and Hello Initiative shares that vision. We’re excited to bring our skills and resources to bear in support of their important work.”
Jessica said the partnership between Kinetic IT and Hello Initiative is just one example of Kinetic IT’s commitment to using technology to empower communities across Australia.
“We believe that technology should be a force for good in society. By partnering with organisations like the Hello Initiative, we can help make that a reality. We’re excited to see the positive impact that we can create together.”
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About Hello Initiative
Hello Initiative is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving digital inclusion and access to technology for marginalised communities.
Founded by Ashleigh Small, the organisation provides a range of practical services to improve social and judicial outcomes for young people exiting the criminal justice system, including through providing access to digital services via the Mobile Support Project.
Hello Initiative recognises the critical role that technology plays in modern society and aims to ensure that it is a tool for empowerment, rather than a barrier.
Through partnerships with organisations like Kinetic IT, Hello Initiative is making a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities who may be struggling to access technology and the digital world.
Visit Hello Initiative’s website for more information.
