The Value of Digital and AI Literacy in the Migrant Journey

At The Place, we know that when people are supported to connect, learn, and grow in a culturally safe space, incredible things happen. That is why we are thrilled to be part of the Digital Sisters program - a program designed to enhance the digital confidence and skills of migrant and refugee women as they adapt to life in a new country.

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Thanks to funding from the Good Things Foundation, we've been privileged to support women from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences; some are already contributing professionally in the Australian workforce, while others face the barriers of language and unfamiliar systems. No matter their starting point, each woman brought with her a story of strength, resilience, and determination.

The Digital Sisters program focuses on building digital confidence and essential skills—whether it’s navigating online systems like Medicare and school portals, accessing services independently, or using technology to apply for jobs and stay connected. While our sessions introduced some foundational AI tools, such as translation and writing aids, our future program will deepen this learning to ensure participants can better understand and harness technology and AI in practical, empowering ways.

“For many of the women, this was their very first experience using AI in a way that felt personal and relevant,” said Zorica Newman, Program Facilitator. “We wanted to demystify it - to show that AI isn’t just for tech experts or something to be afraid of. It’s not about replacing real thinking or cutting corners. It’s about using the tools available to make life a little easier; whether that’s writing a better email, understanding a school note, or gaining the confidence to apply for a job.”

Importantly, the impact doesn’t stop with just the participant. One participant shared, “I used to rely on my son to do everything online. Now, I help him.” Another said she finally feels confident to engage with her child’s school and neighbours thanks to digital tools. These everyday moments speak to the power of inclusion and the ripple effect of digital empowerment.

A highlight of this round of the program was a community event that celebrated everything the participants had learned. The women used AI to help write their favourite recipes in their own languages, then translated them into English to share with others. They not only created bilingual recipe cards but also cooked the dishes for everyone to taste and enjoy together. It was a joyful day of cultural exchane, storytelling, and shared pride in their learning journey.

“It is important to us that this program goes beyond just teaching digital skills - we want the women to feel confident, informed, and culturally safe when engaging with technology. We take time to discuss online safety, privacy, and ethics in a way that respects their lived experiences. It’s about creating empowered digital citizens, women who feel capable and supported, and who know they have a right to be part of the digital world on their own terms,” says Centre Manager, Cristelle Govender.

We’re thrilled to share that we will continue Digital Sisters for another year. We’re also proud to collaborate with multicultural partners like Mosaic Multicultural Connections, who play a key role in helping us reach and support participants with cultural understanding and care. We look forward to expanding our work with digital literacy and AI for migrant women, welcoming more women, growing new partnerships, and continuing to break down digital barriers—one connection at a time.

The Digital Sisters program is about opening doors, building confidence, and creating opportunities. And above all, it celebrates the strength, diversity, and brilliance of the women in our community.

If you would like to sharpen your digital literacy skills or learn more about AI (Artificial Intelligence), get in contact with The Place Charlestown Community Centre to see how we can help you. Call 02 4032 5500 or email programs@theplacecharlestown.org.au.