Tamariki, Taiohi and Technology

Brainwave Panel Discussion: Tamariki, Taiohi and Technology What does it take to thrive in a digital world? Increasing use of digital technology raises important questions for everyone with a role in shaping the lives, learning and wellbeing of children and young people. How do digital environments impact brain development, emotional wellbeing, health, identity and learning? And how can we equip tamariki and taiohi to navigate online spaces safely, critically and confidently? On Friday 27 November, Brainwave Trust Aotearoa will bring together four experts for a multidisciplinary panel discussion exploring these questions, facilitated by Brainwave Trust Patron, Dr Hinemoa Elder (MNZM). This event is for a broad professional audience, including people working directly with children and young people, health and education professionals, organisational leaders, governance and board representatives, policymakers, academics, researchers, and others whose work influences the environments in which tamariki and taiohi grow and learn. Our panellists bring complementary perspectives across paediatrics, clinical psychology, neuroscience, and education: • Dr Sonja Crone, President of Te Kāhui Mātai Arotamariki o Aotearoa (Paediatric Society of New Zealand) and Clinical Director for Women, Child, and Family Services at Health New Zealand Lakes. • Dr Amy Kercher, clinical psychologist and AUT lecturer, whose work includes childhood and adolescent psychological difficulties, anxiety, prevention and early intervention. • Dr Mangor Pedersen, Associate Professor and Head of Psychology and Neuroscience at AUT, specialising in neuroscience, brain health and artificial intelligence. • Professor Melinda Webber (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Hau, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kahu), University of Auckland Professor and Co-Director of Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, whose research explores Māori identity, educational success, media literacy and digital citizenship. Together, they’ll explore what current evidence tells us, where further questions remain, and the implications for professional practice, organisational decision-making, governance, policy, and the environments in which children and young people grow and learn. The discussion will consider the wider developmental, relational, cultural, and social contexts that shape young people’s experiences, with insights relevant to those working directly with tamariki and taiohi as well as those shaping services, strategy, and decisions that affect them. When: Friday November 27 Doors open: 5pm (light refreshments provided) Location: KPMG, 18 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Auckland Tickets: Capacity is strictly limited. Early registration advised. Join us for a timely, evidence-informed conversation about supporting tamariki and taiohi to be empowered and thrive in an increasingly digital world. With thanks to our event partners, KPMG and Whāraurau, for helping make this discussion possible.