After redundancy from an engineering job, Vimal had been long-term unemployed, but exploring a growing interest in computers and technology.
After hearing about a local project to increase access to IT and the internet for local people, he decided to join the WEA's Digital Activist Inclusion Network (DAIN) project.
Vimal says he wanted to share his knowledge and encourage people to discover the benefits of technology. He trained to volunteer as a 'Digital Activist' in Leicester. WEA colleagues noted that he was an eager participant, quick to learn and with a talent for sharing his knowledge. Volunteering was completely new to Vimal.
In his role as Digital Activist, Vimal encourages people to get to grips with computers and technology and helps people to understand the practical benefits of IT.
Vimal contacts organisations in his local community including temples and doctors surgeries, and encourages friends and family to attend DAIN drop-in sessions to learn about technology.
Vimal’s enthusiasm for promoting DAIN has resulted in many new partnerships being developed with organisations, including InTraining and Job Centre Plus.
As well as acquiring new skills through volunteering, Vimal has also taken the chance to learn about accessible technology including specialised equipment, dyslexia awareness and software for people who are visually impaired. His growing interest in supporting people with additional needs to access technology, has led to Vimal being invited to provide voluntary support in WEA computer courses for disabled people.
After Vimal started out helping in one class, word got round to other WEA tutors about his amazing work and enthusiasm - he now supports three classes.
Vimal’s interest in his new role has sparked an interest to teach as well as support and he is now completing a qualification, called Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS), so he may also teach within adult education.