Mobile network EE has teamed up with a community organisation in west London to offer free technology workshops to help “narrow London’s digital divide”.
The partnership with Our Power Hub will see people offered workshops throughout the summer at the new EE Studio store in Westfield White City.
The first session on Saturday, July 15, was a digital art workshop led by Fathima Hakkim, a professional illustrator and novelist, with the local community encouraged to sign up and learn how to unleash their creativity and develop their digital skills.
Utilising the latest technology and apps, the session saw children aged seven and above guided through the process of digital art creation and animation, receiving tips and tricks on sketching, drawing and colour blending, as well as being introduced to a range of connected technology in the EE Studio.
The EE Studio is designed to serve as a hub for the local community to work, learn and play, and the partnership is part of the brand’s commitment to help better the communities it operates in.
The Studio showcases a host of ‘experience zones’ and ‘room sets’, including the UK’s first Digital Spa and the ultimate Gaming Zone, with each area carefully curated to demonstrate how cutting-edge technology and connectivity is enhancing everyday life.
EE said the initiative with Our Power Hub is part of parent company the BT Group’s work to help “digitally upskill the UK and tackle the digital divide.”
Nadia Aasili, founder Our Power Hub said: “Some people come to our events and have limited experience using devices such as laptops and iPads due to not having access to them at home. Our workshops have not only helped them to build their confidence with technology, but also with their peers and wider society. By partnering with EE, we are able to give the local community the opportunity to get hands on with a range of connected technology, further developing their knowledge and digital skills”.
Dean King, Director of Stores, EE comments: “The EE Studio is a vibrant hub for the local community, providing a valuable space to work, learn, and play. We can’t wait to welcome local residents to our brand-new Studio and help them unleash their creativity all while developing their digital skills.”
Details about upcoming sessions will be available on the digital screens on the EE Studio shopfront, as well as the Our Power Hub website.
