Using technology to drive positive social change
By Neli
It’s hard to overstate the influence of technology on our daily lives. From the ways we connect with each other on social media to the ways we shop and even fall in love. But, what’s even more exciting is the way technology has become an integral part of our culture and economy, and how it’s continuing to transform our world right before our eyes.
In recent years we’ve seen some pretty mind-blowing things happen with machine learning, AI, and blockchain-based solutions that have made the non-profit sector more transparent and accountable. The changes we’re experiencing now are unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Technology and driving positive social change
When it comes to promoting advocacy – something of particular interest to us given our client base – technology can be a powerful ally. It has the ability to connect people, inspire change, and empower individuals and communities.
However it’s also important to be mindful of its impact. We have a responsibility to use it in a way that promotes the common good and protects the well-being of our communities.
This is why we need to think creatively and strategically about the ways it can be used to promote equity, accessibility and engagement at every step. We also need to recognise how technology can become a powerful tool for activists and changemakers to connect with like-minded communities and amplify their message. We’re grateful We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with clients who share our values and are committed to driving positive change.
Leveraging technology in low-income communities
For example, THINKMD, a healthcare tech company, is leveraging the power of technology to create positive change in the area of healthcare. The company was founded by two physicians, Dr Barry Finette and Dr Barry Heath, with a mission to address the lack of access to basic primary healthcare services in low and middle income countries.
Their solution? A simple-to-use mobile technology that allows almost anyone to conduct a high quality clinical assessment, identify illnesses and risk, and determine the next steps to take. The technology is backed by physician-based clinical intelligence algorithms and has been scientifically validated in field-based trials with over 1,000 children in four countries on three continents.
Since 2014, THINKMD’s solution has been implemented in 10 countries with various partners, including Save the Children, Healthy Learners, Integrate Health, and eHA Clinics, with support from organisations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Mulago Foundation, UBS Optimus Foundation, and others.
By working with THINKMD to build their website, we have gained first-hand experience of how technology can be a powerful tool for social change through the democratisation of healthcare resources and services in low income communities.
The Girl Effect: Empowering girls through technology
Another example is the Girl Effect, also one of our (dream-come-true) clients. They are a powerful movement that understands the transformative power of girls. The Girl Effect believes that when one girl is empowered to make different choices, she can inspire others to do the same. This creates a ripple effect that can impact her family, community, country, and the world.
Their chatbot, Big Sis By Springster, is a perfect example of how technology is being used to educate and connect girls. By providing a safe space for girls to learn and ask questions about topics such as safe sex, relationships, and health, Big Sis is helping to break down barriers and providing girls with knowledge and resources in a safe and private space that they may not have access to otherwise.
The risks and challenges of using technology
As social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp continue to evolve and become a key part in the way we communicate and share information, organisations like Girl Effect are taking advantage of this to drive positive change.
Of course, technology is not some magic cure-all solution, and there are definitely some real risks that are simply too great to ignore. From concerns about privacy and data security to the possibility that machines might displace workers, there are valid concerns that must be taken seriously if we want to ensure that technology is a force for good.
At Pomegranite, our passion for technology goes beyond just building great websites and creating social media content. We believe in the power of technology to create positive change in the world, and we’re proud to have helped so many mission-driven organisations make a real difference through their work.
Are you looking to create meaningful change in the world? We’d be honoured to partner with you and help bring your vision to life.