As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, NetFella held its first-ever Twitter Space on 28th October 2024 titled: “Digital Literacy for Online Safety: Understanding the Impact on Real Life.” What began as a one-hour session quickly turned into an engaging two-hour dialogue with over 9,400 listeners joining us live. The excitement was palpable as we delved into the complexities of digital safety, the psychological effects of social media, and the broader impact of technology on young people’s lives in Rwanda and beyond.
Here’s a look back at some of the key moments and insights shared by our incredible panel.
Digital Literacy as the Foundation of Cybersecurity
The event kicked off with Irasubiza Sadrah, Managing Director of NetFella, setting the tone by discussing digital literacy as a cornerstone of cybersecurity. Sadrah emphasized that understanding the fundamentals of online safety empowers individuals to protect themselves and make informed choices in an increasingly digital world.
“Digital literacy equips us with the skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to cybersecurity risks. In a world where cyber threats evolve rapidly, our best defense is a digitally aware population,” Sadrah explained. This message resonated with our audience, many of whom were eager for practical steps they could apply in their daily lives.
The Mental Health Impact of Social Media
From there, Patrick MURENZI, a Clinical Psychologist at GAERG Rwanda, dove into a topic that touched many: the effect of social media on mental health. MURENZI spoke about the potential pitfalls of excessive social media use, especially among young people who might not yet have the tools to manage its psychological impacts.
“Overuse of social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and a skewed self-image,” MURENZI cautioned. “Practicing digital literacy means knowing when to step back and ensure that social media adds value rather than detracts from our lives.” His perspective brought depth to our conversation, offering listeners a balanced view of how digital spaces can be both beneficial and harmful if not navigated mindfully.
Responsible Influencing and Online Safety
One of the highlights of the evening was a conversation with Shyaka Noella, a popular social media influencer, who shared insights on how influencers can balance visibility with responsibility. Noella discussed the importance of using her platform to promote safe digital practices and cautioned against the risks of oversharing.
“As influencers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of what we share,” she explained. “Our followers look to us for guidance, and it’s crucial that we set an example by practicing safe and responsible digital behavior.” Her advice on managing privacy settings and maintaining authenticity without sacrificing security struck a chord with listeners, especially young people aspiring to build a positive online presence.
The Role of Civil Society in Digital Literacy
Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, offered a powerful reminder of the role civil society plays in promoting digital literacy across all segments of the population. He spoke about efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of location or background, has access to the tools needed to navigate the internet safely.
“Our aim is to make sure no one is left behind in the digital age,” Mfitumukiza explained. “We’re working on initiatives that bring digital literacy to all Rwandans, focusing on safe and responsible online practices that protect individuals and their data.” His words underscored the importance of community involvement in fostering a digitally literate society and brought an essential perspective on how policy and outreach efforts can make a difference.
Digital Literacy as a Pathway to Tech Careers
Clementine Ishimwe, Managing Director of Initiative Tech Solutions Ltd, concluded the panel discussion by illustrating how digital literacy can serve as a gateway to career growth, particularly in the tech sector. She encouraged the youth to pursue cybersecurity, coding, and other in-demand digital skills that could open doors to life-changing opportunities.
“Digital literacy is a career gateway,” Ishimwe stated. “Once you understand the basics, you’re not only safer online but also better positioned for the tech jobs of tomorrow.” Her remarks resonated deeply, showing listeners that digital literacy is not only about safety but also a pathway to new career horizons.
A First of Many: Moving Forward with Digital Literacy Initiatives
The overwhelmingly positive response to this Twitter Space has inspired us to make it a regular event. Our goal is to create ongoing, accessible conversations around digital literacy and online safety, particularly for the youth of Rwanda. By providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the digital world safely, we hope to foster a culture of responsibility, awareness, and growth.
At NetFella, we are committed to expanding our reach and building partnerships with organizations that share our mission of digital empowerment. With more collaborations, we can bring digital literacy training and resources to more communities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in today’s connected world.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us, our stellar panel of speakers, and our co-host TITO HARERIMANA for their time, insights, and commitment to fostering a safer online environment.
Stay tuned for more events and follow us as we continue our journey to make the internet a safer and more accessible space for everyone. Together, we can build a digitally resilient and empowered community, one conversation at a time.
Final Thoughts
This Twitter Space was more than just a discussion – it was a step toward a safer, more informed digital future. We’re excited to continue these conversations, creating a platform where youth can learn, grow, and contribute to a positive digital culture. Thank you to everyone who made this event a success, and we look forward to more impactful sessions ahead.
#CybersecurityAwarenessMonth #NetFella #DigitalLiteracy #OnlineSafety #YouthInTech #DigitalEmpowerment #TechForGood
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