Need Help? Meet Your Digi-Coach

A new way to get digital help has arrived. For the next 12 weeks, Manawatū Community Hub Libraries (MCHL) will have a Digi-Coach on site offering free, friendly assistance with everything from setting up a smartphone to writing cover letters and résumés.

That coach is Briar Mills, a Feilding local with a master’s degree in psychology who has spent the past five years studying. She is passionate about helping people and offers one-on-one support with apps, emails, Skinny Jump sign-ups, and other digital needs. She will also run upcoming virtual reality (VR) sessions, giving people the chance to explore different work experiences in an interactive way.

Available Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm, Briar can often be found at the large table near the front counter, just look for the bright blue flag. She is ready to sit down with you, explain things clearly, and give you the time you need to feel confident with digital tools. Drop-ins are welcome; however, bookings will be essential for the Career-focused VR sessions are available on 21–23 October and 25–27 November. Register online via this link Upcoming Classes - Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa by selecting the location and choosing Manawatū Community Hub Libraries.

“We are excited to welcome Digi-Coaches,” said Marie Willis, Community Hub Programmes Leader. “There’s a huge demand for digital support in our community and having a dedicated person means we can help so many more people.”

The initiative is part of a Ministry of Social Development work experience programme, delivered by the Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa in partnership with local libraries and community groups. It is designed to give people access to the digital skills and support they need, while also providing participants with valuable experience to support their future career pathways.

With Digi-Coaching, it’s all about making it easier than ever for people to build confidence and get the support they need in today’s world.

Meet your Digi-Coach: Briar Mills, here to make digital support easy at Te Āhuru Mōwai.