Local pioneers recognised for driving technology for social good in the region

Tech4Good South West has announced the inaugural cohort of Tech4Good Champions, recognising individuals based across the South West of England who are using technology to drive positive change and generate social impact.

The 2024 Tech4Good Champions are:

• Richard Wheatley, co-founder HeadX: Richard’s business HeadX is focusing on the development of a wearable device to help manage sports-related concussions. He’s also worked with DEEP, focusing on advancing technology for underwater exploration. He is an active mentor with the Institute of Engineering & Technology and a trustee for Crossroads Care Gloucestershire looking at how technology can enhance social care services. He has over 20 years’ experience improving processes in engineering and IT.
• John Bradford, Digilocal: DigiLocal was formed following a skills and diversity event. Working with the Somali Resource Centre and other community partners, it aims to improve access to coding skills for young people. Launched in 2015, DigiLocal has supported over 200 volunteers and 3,000 young people through weekly coding clubs in community venues across Bristol. Participants have gone on to study Computer Science and many return as volunteers inspiring the next generation. Digilocal is also the NASA Space Apps Challenge Lead for Bristol.
• Frazer Meakin, Pervasive Media Studio: A former teacher, Frazer has completed a 10-month Fellowship in Residence with Bristol’s MyWorld project. He is using technology as a tool for good by empowering young people to pursue careers in creative technologies. He has engaged with over 700 young people through the project, including 100 from SEND (special educational needs) provision schools and 25 from Alternative Learning Provisions.
• John Stienlet and Sabita Ravi, Quartet Community Foundation: As a regional funding organisation Quartet has been championing the power of local philanthropy for 37 years investing in £1.7million in grants with a tech element in the last five years. Projects have included supporting 100 children to make their own podcasts; capacity-building grants to improve digital infrastructure and start-up grants.

“These champions represent the very best of how technology can be harnessed for social good,” said Annie Legge, founder of Tech4Good South West.

“What they all have in common is passion, creativity and a commitment to making a difference in their communities. This is the first cohort of Tech4Good South West Champions who have been chosen by a panel of experts and peers. We’re honoured to shine a light on their incredible work.”

Tech4Good South West launched its member community in 2022 to celebrate and support the region’s thriving ecosystem of technologists, social innovators and community leaders driving positive change through digital solutions.

To nominate a future Champion:  https://tech4goodsouthwest.org/champions

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