SeniorNet established in 1992 is a charitable organisation providing technology training to New Zealand seniors.  It has 53 Learning Centres providing training on how to use PCs/laptops, phones and tablets, computer literacy and runs special interest technology workshops.

Heather Newell, Executive Director joined SeniorNet in 2020, the year that Covid-19 forced New Zealanders to socially isolate, making it impossible for seniors to attend training or socialise in any way. Alarmingly, many seniors lived in solitude, estranged from whanau, and close relationships.  Many had not actively engaged online until the pandemic struck.

Concerned about the psychological ramifications of social isolation and the need for mental stimulation for vulnerable seniors, Heather revisited the SeniorNet training model. She envisaged a 'FREE' online, integrative learning platform and engaged project manager Vinay Karanam to develop Senior Hangouts. This would facilitate integrative online peer to peer learning and address some of the concerns about depression, loneliness and lack of mental stimulation.

Since its inception in 2020 over 13,000 seniors have participated in the programmes and the platform has hosted over 1000 sessions. Sessions are run daily at 10am with special interest group meetings held during the week. Participants can also review and consolidate their learning in their own time or retrieve missed sessions at any time free of charge.

This award recognises an individual for outstanding service in, and contribution to, the development and delivery of adult and community education. It is intended to be a tribute for outstanding work in teaching, training, administration, or a combination of these.

Click here to see the full list of 2022 ACE Annual Award recipients.