Conference awards highlights

Attending events provides opportunities to learn, share research, test ideas, and build connections. Around $115,000 enabled 44 people to attend events across the motu and around the world.

Some of this year's recipients shared photos and highlights:

Di Daniels attended TUANZ Symposium

“Thanks to InternetNZ for sponsoring my attendance at the TUANZ Rural Connectivity Symposium 2023 in Christchurch in May. The overall impression was there are so many people still in the conversation striving for Digital Equity and Inclusion in their own communities, and nationwide, 20 years down the track. Seeking new solutions and adapting to challenges, yet unwavering in their commitment to improving access to the internet and technology.”

Dr Victoria Huang attended the 32nd International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence

“The conference facilitated numerous networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers, potential collaborators, and industry leaders…

Main Takeaways: 

1. Interdisciplinary collaboration: The future of AI requires collaboration between various disciplines, from neuroscience to sociology.

 2. AI in real-world applications: There's a shift from theoretical research to practical applications, with a focus on how AI can solve real-world problems.

3. Challenges ahead: While AI has made significant progress, challenges related to data privacy, bias, and generalisation remain.”

Jonathan Brewer, attended PacIGF and APrIGF

“I achieved beyond what I expected for this conference.”

Jo Barber, 4Phase Games, attended Canterbury Tech Summit

“The exhibition space wasnt as ‘suit and tie’ as I thought it was going to be. In fact, it was pretty engaging seeing how deep work in the tech space can go. And the speakers were amazing, namely Ellie Archer and her empowering kōrero about life and her journey and impact within tech research and development.”

Xiao Li attended Pacific Asia Conference on Information Systems

“Digital resilience is increasingly crucial in today's fast-paced and technology-dependent world. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and being adaptable to changing circumstances will help organisations, communities, and individuals stay relevant and resilient….

In summary, digital resilience requires a proactive approach, including but not limited to fostering adaptability, collaboration, robust emergency plans, effective crisis communication, and flexible resource orchestration. It is an ongoing process, and organisations, communities, and individuals need to engage in continuous learning to adapt to dynamic environments, harness information technology to effectively address risks, and transform into resilient entities to sustainably withstand future shocks.

Thank you once again for the support from InternetNZ that I am able to participate in the conference. I will continue to work on the digital resilience project, striving to provide valuable insights for both practice and academia.”

Maakarita Paku from Toi Matarau, Māoriland Charitable Trust attended Santa Fe Indian Market

“On behalf of Toi Matarau and the Māoriland Charitable Trust, I extend great gratitude for the financial support granted so that we could make the trip to New Mexico. The experience, insights, and learning were invaluable to our growth and development as a centre of innovation and excellence.

E kore e mutu ngā mihi, mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu.”

Vivian Chandra and Zoe Timbrell, OMGTech attended A.I.-focused Computer Science Education Convention, hosted by Code.org

“Listening to the experiences and challenges from US and international conference attendees, I couldn't help feeling that our education system here in Aotearoa is progressive in terms of reducing inequity and promoting inclusion in Digital Tech.

The connections made, especially with Native American organisations such as AISES.org, have the potential to be mutually supportive in striving for equity and diversity in STEAM/STEMM education.”

Ryan Higgins from Digital Story Telling Aotearoa (DSTA) attended EduTech Conference

“It showed me that we already have the great initiatives and tools for education in New Zealand, and that our educators are using them well. It showed me that we are not behind the curve, but ahead of it. There are many schools that are utilising the resources and the PLD providers upskilling teachers with their potential. So I felt reassured.

I would like to thank you once again for the funding that enabled me to attend this conference. It was an unforgettable experience. Upon reflection, I realised that there were some valuable insights from the conference, and that some of the drawbacks could be seen as strengths of what we are using in New Zealand public education.”

Mele Togiaso from DSTA also attended EduTech Conference

“There was always something on that was of interest to me, and I often had to choose between multiple workshops I wanted to attend!...

Hearing about the latest developments in educational technology, particularly the latest initiatives and innovative projects at primary schools. This affirmed some of the mahi that we are already doing here in Aotearoa but also gave me some ideas for how we could integrate technology in more purposeful and powerful ways….

Thank you again to InternetNZ for giving us the opportunity to attend this conference. It was extremely valuable and I definitely think there is scope for something similar to this in NZ!!”

Arnika Macphail from DSTA also attended EduTech Conference

“The EduTech conference in Melbourne showcased a plethora of innovative teaching methodologies and pedagogical approaches. I was particularly inspired by sessions that emphasised:

• learner-centered education
• well-being
• personalised learning
• and the integration of technology to enhance student engagement.

Also - it is so important to go with a group - so you have time to reflect on sessions and gain some collective insight.”

Duncan Cameron attended APNIC 56

“I look forward to seeing you all at APNIC58 in Wellington next year!”