Renee Black

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 civictech.guide/ & here digitalpublicgoods.net/

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 verificationhandbook.com/

3 b. Digital Risk, Digital literacy, digital access. digital security, data protection, data literacy, and on and on - Deep breath. It is a lot. icrc.org/en/publication/4305… youtube.com/watch?v=Pq8qUB8a…

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. ifrc.org/article/what-weve-l…