Girl Guides Victoria launch social media site for tweens
Girl Guides Victoria, in association with NTT DATA, has launched a unique secure social media site for girls under the age of 13.
Known as iGGi (i Girl Guide interactive), the site provides a secure platform for Girl Guides to interact through social media.
Chief Technology Officer at NTT DATA (Boston), Imran Sayeed described the platform as one-of-a-kind.
“Most social media sites require participants to be over 13 years of age, however younger users still participate but without the skills to navigate what can be a challenging environment,” said Sayeed.
Girl Guides Victoria CEO, Wendy Lewis, said she was thrilled to be able to allow girls to experience social media in a safe, secure environment that is not exposed to the world at large.
“We believe that in today’s society, social media plays an important role, and as part of developing life skills, we have a role to play in informing girls and young women about how to use social media in a responsible way.
“These girls can now learn how to communicate appropriately and at the same time, share their passions and interests with other Guides,” said Lewis.
In addition, iGGi allows for a more innovative delivery of the Australian Guide Program including the opportunity to earn badges and still be involved if time is an issue and participants cannot attend Unit meetings.
iGGi utilises blogs, message boards, chat, and “The Wire”, a Twitter equivalent to send messages. The entire site is completely secure and requires acceptance of a social media agreement that sets out what’s expected of all users.
Photo: Girl Guides Victoria CEO Wendy Lewis with some local guides.
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