The Digital Champions Story and Journey

Published: 18th April 2024

Welcome, in this guide we will answer some of the most common questions about the programme, discuss its structure, and hear from some of our Digital Champions who are making a difference in their communities. Let’s dive in and learn more about this innovative programme.

Digital Champions: Youth Voices Shaping the Digital Leaders Programme

Within the Digital Leaders Programme, a select group of young people take on the additional role of Digital Champions. They play a crucial role in shaping the programme, ensuring it remains relevant and engaging for their peers.

Who are Digital Champions?

Digital Champions are notable young people who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the Digital Leaders Programme. They go beyond their regular responsibilities within their schools to advocate for online safety on a broader national scale.

What do Digital Champions do?

Youth Representation: Digital Champions function as a link between students on the programme and the Childnet team. They provide feedback and insights, ensuring the programme stays attuned to young people’s needs and concerns.
Module Development and Content Creation: Digital Champions contribute to the creation of the programme’s online safety resources and materials, helping shape the learning experiences of their peers.
Event Participation: They may participate in conferences or events, sharing their experiences and perspectives on online safety with wider audiences.
Community Connection: Digital Champions stay connected with the wider community of Digital Leaders, offering support, and amplifying the programme’s impact.

Why are Digital Champions important?

The Digital Champions play an essential role within the programme:

Authenticity and Relatability: Digital Champions ensure the programme maintains a youth-centred voice, making it more impactful for students.
Fresh Perspectives: They offer valuable insights on emerging trends and the ever-evolving online landscape, keeping the programme current.
Leadership Development: The Digital Champion role provides students with unique leadership opportunities, fostering their growth and confidence.

Testimonies from Digital Champions

Dominik, a participant of the Digital Champions programme, shares his experience, “As a Digital Champion, we have gone out to many places, such as the BT Tower in London and the Meta offices, for some of our monthly catch ups. We take part in Safer Internet Day to promote safety online and we travel to the BT Tower to broadcast our message of online safety. We also do some community work such as surveys and other things such as blogs and talks with MPs.” This insight offers a glimpse into the dynamic and impactful roles that Digital Champions undertake, demonstrating their commitment to promoting a safer digital space.

As we conclude, let’s revisit the words of Aimee, a former participant of the Digital Champions, to truly grasp the power and potential of the Digital Leaders Programme. , “It was daunting at first, but has led to so many amazing opportunities and priceless memories that I have never forgotten. It has also given me the platform to advocate for something really care about.”

These words encapsulate the essence of the Digital Leaders Programme. It’s not merely a training platform; it’s a transformative journey that cultivates confidence, fosters open dialogue, and promotes a culture of respect and kindness among students. It encourages students to be more engaged in their digital environments, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to navigate the online world safely.

The enthusiasm and growth seen in the young people involved, such as Aimee and Dominik, are testaments to the programme’s effectiveness. The programme opens a world of opportunities for students, giving them the platform and the voice to advocate for safer online environments, and in turn, influencing their peers to do the same.

So, why not take the leap? Join the growing number of educators choosing the Digital Leaders Programme. Let’s take this significant step together to empower our students to create a safer online environment.