Charities benefit from Canterbury Tech Summit
19 September 2018
Imagine being born with a condition that prevented you from communicating your thoughts and feelings with the world.
That’s the experience of hundreds of young Cantabrians, but thanks to the positive potential of technology and the big
hearts of some local supporters, they’re finding their voices and leading fuller lives.
The recent Canterbury Tech Summit championed technology that’s good for the world and supported worthy causes with an
innovative fundraiser for Kiwi children’s charities.
“Whether it's kids learning to write code, technology helping them access learning opportunities, or inspiring future
innovators, we’re excited to support causes using tech to do great things for young people,” says Abbie Reid, Special
Projects Coordinator at Christchurch-based software development company, Media Suite.
Reid’s sentiment was echoed by the 700+ attendees at the recent Canterbury Tech Summit, where the theme of technology
that’s good for the world was amplified by various exhibitors, sponsors and speakers.
Summit sponsor Media Suite were among the exhibitors, championing worthy causes with an innovative fundraiser for Kiwi
children’s charities Ministry of Inspiration, Code Club Aotearoa and The Champion Centre.
Delegates were given a bright orange LEGO block representing a $10 donation and invited to place them on building board
to mark the charity of their choice. Check out their blog here to see what happened next!
One of these charities is the Champion Centre, a Christchurch-based group dedicated to providing early intervention
services to infants and young children with learning disabilities. The money raised contributed to the centre’s Computer
Supported Learning Programme, which enables young people to express themselves with the aid of innovative technologies.
"The Champion Centre is a great cause, and really demonstrates the power technology can have to change lives," Reid
says. "We heard so many stories from conference participants whose family members or friends had benefited from the
centre and the amazing work it does."
ChristchurchNZ General Manager of Business & Innovation Richard Sandford says Christchurch has a growing reputation as an innovative technology hub, with a strong
focus on technologies that make our world a better place to live.
“We’re home to many extraordinary Kiwis who are passionate about tech and its ability to make a difference where it’s
needed most,” Sandford says.
Simon Wakelin, South Island Regional Sales Manager of summit sponsor, Vocus Communications, says enabling the next
generation of young people to access information technologies will go a long way in ensuring they can reach their full
potential.
“These community-focused initiatives are powerful investments that are reflective of the genuine desire of our local
tech community to make a positive difference in the world,” Wakelin says.
The 2018 Canterbury Tech Summit attracted over 700 attendees from homegrown tech firms including Rocket Lab, Trineo,
Cryptopia, RedShield Security, Skilitics, FaceMe, and more.