ISOC Community-Centered Connectivity Conference
Statement of Intent
OUR NETWORK.
OUR COMMUNITY.
OUR FUTURE.
The Internet is more than a commercial service delivered to individual customers. At its best, it is a shared social and technical infrastructure: a way for people to communicate, create, learn, organize, exchange knowledge, and participate in the decisions that affect their lives.
Its development has always depended upon collaboration, shared standards, interconnected networks, and the willingness of people and institutions to contribute to something larger than themselves.
Yet the ability to connect to the Internet does not mean that everyone participates in it equally.
Access is increasingly mediated by commercial platforms, telecommunications companies, governments, institutions, and technologies designed elsewhere. Cost remains an important barrier, but the digital divide is also shaped by access to equipment, skills, privacy, trust, accessibility, representation, knowledge, and decision-making power.
A person can have an Internet connection while having very little control over the technologies and systems upon which that connection depends.
North End Connect exists because we believe communities should have a meaningful role in determining their own digital futures.
Our purpose is therefore larger than providing Internet access. NEC seeks to strengthen the capacity of Winnipeg’s North End to understand, build, use, maintain, govern, question, and change technology for itself.
We describe this as digital self-determination.
Highlights
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Field |
Suggested entry |
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Age info |
All ages welcome |
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Door time |
9:30 AM |
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Parking info |
Street parking available nearby; check posted restrictions |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC)?
Community-Centered Connectivity is an approach to bringing Internet access to communities through solutions built for, with, or by the people who use them. This event explores how local communities can develop, operate, and sustain their own connectivity solutions.
Who should attend?
Everyone interested in digital inclusion and community technology is welcome! This includes community residents, students, educators, nonprofit organizations, technology enthusiasts, policymakers, researchers, and anyone interested in making the Internet more accessible and affordable.
Do I need technical knowledge to participate?
Not at all! The event is designed for people with diverse backgrounds and experiences. You don’t need to know anything about networking or computers to contribute to the conversation.
Where is the event being held?
Merchants Corner, 541 Selkirk Avenue, in Winnipeg’s North End. The venue is part of a community where North End Connect is actively developing locally operated Internet infrastructure.
What can I expect during the event?
Expect presentations, community conversations, practical examples, and opportunities to connect with people working on digital equity. We’ll explore community networks, digital skills, local innovation, and how communities can take a greater role in shaping their digital futures.
Is this event only for people from Winnipeg’s North End?
No! While the event celebrates community-led initiatives in Winnipeg’s North End, participants from across Winnipeg, Manitoba, and beyond are welcome.
Will there be food and refreshments?
Food and refreshments are planned as part of the event. Additional details will be shared closer to the date.
Is the venue accessible?
We want everyone to be able to participate. Please contact the organizers in advance to discuss accessibility requirements so we can confirm available accommodations.
Who is organizing the event?
The event is organized by the Internet Society Manitoba Chapter, in collaboration with North End Connect and the Internet Society’s Community-Centered Connectivity initiative.
How can I get involved beyond the event?
The event is an opportunity to meet local organizations, explore volunteering and partnerships, and learn about ongoing community connectivity projects. Whether you bring technical expertise, community knowledge, or simply curiosity, you can contribute.