"We desire to see our children alive. I think it's a fair one."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was met with a standing ovation from the European Parliament after a powerful speech that caused the EU translator on the English language feed to choke up with emotion.
Do something. Believe me - I know that call, that drive. 12 years ago I turned my life upside down, changed careers to became a 'digital humanitarian', learned new skills, and converged with others on the complex journey to use data and tech for impact. 🧵 on some suggestions.
People before data/technology. (Full stop. Deep breath. Roll shoulders.) How will it help people in this emergency and others? I have gotten multiple notes on various social media platforms and really hope that that passion to do something can convert to action -now &over time.
Ask yourself - What are the skills, tools, and networks that I need to get involved? What do people really need from us? How will I also take care of myself and my people? Honestly, onboarding into digital, data & tech for impact is rocky and full of complexity. Start somewhere.
1. Join existing efforts - there are many groups (Civil society, humanitarian, development, and activists) who have local networks and understanding in Ukraine, Russia and the region. eg.#osint@TranslatorsWB, many #opensource#opendata groups. Ask where they need digital skills
2. Build with - have an idea and want to build a product/service? Great. Do your homework - NEED?, languages, research (duplication?), human-centered design, DPIA, #dataprotection, #digitalrisk, and timing. Start here https://t.co/o8tcY1PCUH & here https://t.co/X7xTssiPt4
3. Misinformation and disinformation: The world was already awash with this. Consider trusted networks & people. Learn about verification best practices & research. There are no shortage of organizations & people. Be safe. Observe. Question. @katestarbird https://t.co/uT3PQ0pIKm
3 b. Digital Risk, Digital literacy, digital access. digital security, data protection, data literacy, and on and on - Deep breath. It is a lot. https://t.co/SLhpYxYJV6 https://t.co/WobfgcvyOj
5. Longer term - Get involved. Join a volunteer organization or institution. Many are in keen need of data and tech skills/support. There is a digital and data divide in this area. Patience. Most lack onboarding for digital volunteers. https://t.co/dQn7aL6mtG
@StrangRobert @nshealth@IainTRankin Instead of requiring every out of province worker to apply for each flight, consider issuing permits at the time of departure or now for those already out of province. Fine the rule breakers heavily, but don't punish essential workers.
I wonder how often in HISTORY that 3 of the top ten NHL scorers have been from the same Municipality ? @Mackinnon9 @Bmarch63 and Sidney Crosby. We are kind of used to that in Halifax Regional Municipality now. Just saying. @hfxgov @NHL