Today I had the opportunity to represent The Happiness Club at a round table discussion held at the Internet Governance Forum, titled” The Elderly Lens: Inclusion in a Digital Nation.”
At The Happiness Club, we often say happiness grows where people feel connected and valued. As the Maldives becomes more digital, our elders must not be left watching from the shore. Digital inclusion, at its heart, is not about devices or data plans — it’s about belonging.
For many of our elderly, technology feels distant, even intimidating. It’s not that they resist it: they simply fear being left behind or making a mistake they cannot undo. That’s why we believe, any true conversation on digital governance must begin with empathy, not efficiency. We must design systems that feel safe, simple, and kind: spaces that welcome, not warn.
The Power of Digital Connection
Digital spaces can be powerful tools for connection, purpose, and joy — if they are built with heart. Imagine WhatsApp groups where grandparents share memories, recipes, or island news in Dhivehi. Or online storytelling nights that keep oral traditions alive, turning technology into a bridge between generations.
Our elders have wisdom to offer. Digital spaces should invite them to teach, guide, and mentor: not just scroll and observe. When they share advice, memories, or faith reflections online, they rediscover purpose. In doing so, they remind us that connection: not content, is what sustains a nation’s soul.
From Intimidation to Empowerment
Many elderly people feel overwhelmed by technology because it often arrives without human warmth. A campaign to include them must start with trust before training. Show how technology strengthens families: not how it replaces them.
We believe we must celebrate real stories: a grandmother sending her first voice note, a father renewing his Aasandha card online. These are not just success stories; they are small triumphs of confidence and courage.
That’s why The Happiness Club proposes Digital Happiness Circles: friendly, intergenerational spaces where youth guide elders through basic e-services in a spirit of care, not instruction. Learning through laughter and story builds confidence far faster than manuals or menus. When the environment feels safe, technology becomes an ally, not an adversary.
A Call for Digital Dignity
We strongly believe that the elderly should be seen as a wealth of wisdom, experience, and knowledge – that would add value to the digital space rather than passive recipients of the scheme.
Inclusion is not a technical goal: it’s a moral one. A truly happy, future-ready Maldives is one where every generation can smile at a screen and feel that the nation smiles back.
Smile and Let Smile 