Over the past six months, Generations Connect: Tech Together has become one of Tasmania’s most uplifting intergenerational initiatives. What began as a simple idea, young people supporting older Tasmanians with everyday digital skills, has grown into a program that is building confidence, friendship and stronger communities across Southern Tasmania.
Thanks to the support of the Tasmanian State Government and Good Things Foundation, hundreds of older residents and young mentors have taken part in weekly sessions that combine learning with genuine human connection. The impact has been remarkable, and we are only just beginning to understand what is possible.
What We Achieved in Six Months
Since July, the program has reached 10 residential aged care homes and brought together 136 older residents with 158 trained Young Digital Mentors. Across 83 sessions, mentors have helped residents learn how to send messages, use tablets, make video calls and feel more confident online.
These sessions run over several weeks, which has allowed strong and meaningful relationships to form. In October, we celebrated the program’s progress by launching the Generations Connect: Tech Together film at Kingston High School, where more than 100 people gathered to share stories and enjoy the moment together.
What Our Partners and Participants Told Us
Residential aged care homes have seen noticeable lifts in residents’ mood, confidence and weekly engagement. Staff have shared that people who were once withdrawn are now more active and social, often looking forward to seeing their young mentors each week.
Schools involved in the program have reported equally strong benefits. Teachers speak about students becoming more patient, more responsible and more emotionally aware. Some young people have even changed their career goals after discovering a passion for working with older adults. One student from Hobart City High School has already been offered a traineeship at OneCare Barossa Lodge as a direct result of the program.
For the young mentors themselves, the experience has been eye-opening. Many say they now feel more confident in speaking with adults, proud of their contribution and more motivated at school. The relationships built with residents have given them a deeper understanding of community and a sense of purpose they carry back into their daily lives.
Voices From the Program
Residents describe the sessions as a highlight in their week.
“This gets me out of my room,” one shared. Another said, “I can message my family now. I feel connected again.”
Young people talk about discovering strengths they didn’t realise they had.
“I didn’t know I could teach someone, but now I can,” a mentor reflected.
Teachers describe some students as “transformed,” while residential staff say it is “the best intergenerational program we’ve run.”
These simple moments of learning, conversation and laughter are creating something much greater than digital skills. They are strengthening wellbeing, confidence and connection on both sides.
The Difference We Are Making
For older Tasmanians, the program is building digital confidence, reducing anxiety around technology and opening new ways to stay connected with family and friends. More importantly, it restores a sense of belonging and purpose.
For young mentors, the program builds communication, leadership and empathy. It supports student wellbeing and creates real pathways into community services, aged care and health roles.
Schools are seeing students more engaged, more settled and more enthusiastic about learning. It is proving that intergenerational programs don’t just support older people, they shape stronger young adults too.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Statewide Impact
Everything achieved so far has happened in only one region and within a short six-month period. With statewide support, Generations Connect: Tech Together could reach older Tasmanians in every corner of the state, including rural and remote communities. It could train many more young mentors and build a strong future workforce in Tasmania’s care and community services sectors.
We are deeply grateful for the support that has brought us this far. As we look ahead, we invite everyone to imagine the possibilities of a connected, confident and digitally inclusive Tasmania.
Mel Knuckey
Program Coordinator
Generations Connect – Tech Together Program
