Digital Future Aotearoa led the way for community impact at the 2025 NZ CIO Awards
The NZ CIO Awards last year recognised Digital Future Aotearoa (DFA) with the prestigious Community Tech Champions Award, an honour sponsored by NZME and reserved for organisations that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to digital equity, diversity, and accessibility. DFA’s mission – to ensure no one is left behind in a rapidly evolving digital landscape – serves as a vital example of this.
As Katie Macdiarmid, Chief Information Officer at NZME, highlighted that the award celebrates purpose-driven innovation. Her comments served as a reminder that the true strength of technology lies in its ability to uplift and empower the communities it serves. DFA’s work stood out among a field of exceptional finalists, including Talent RISE and Women in Data Science NZ.
A Holistic Approach to Inclusion
The success of DFA lies in its multi-layered approach to building digital capability. Through nationwide programmes like Recycle a Device, Code Club Aotearoa, and Digital Pīkau, the organisation does more than just provide hardware; it fosters the confidence to lead and teach.
By refurbishing laptops for students and community groups, DFA bridges the gap between environmental sustainability and social equity. This “holistic approach” was specifically praised by the judges, who noted how DFA effectively blends resourcefulness with a clear vision for a future where digital inclusion translates directly into opportunity.
Innovating at the Speed of Thoughtfulness
A highlight of the evening was the powerful call to action from the DFA team. In an era where “innovating at the speed of thought” is often the norm, the award winners challenged the industry to instead “innovate at the speed of thoughtfulness.” This philosophy reminds the tech sector to remain conscious of who might be left behind as AI and other disruptive technologies advance. For DFA, impact is achieved through a “multiplier effect” – empowering local leaders, schools, and community groups to take the reach of digital literacy further into the areas that need it most.
A Collaborative Success
The judges’ citation highlighted DFA’s ability to spark curiosity and open pathways for underrepresented groups, particularly Rangatahi Māori and Pasifika communities. Their results over the past year speak for themselves: thousands of refurbished laptops gifted and hundreds of individuals trained in technology.
Furthermore, the organisation’s success is bolstered by strategic partnerships, such as their work with Foodstuffs South Island, to channel corporate resources into community-led digital device recycling – an inspiring example of collaboration with industry.
Check out their story, and award acceptance highlight video below:
Inspired by Digital Future Aotearoa’s Mission?
Do you know an organisation or initiative that is masterfully breaking down barriers to technology and fostering a more inclusive Aotearoa? The 2026 Innovation for Impact and Purpose Award celebrates those who deliver meaningful, measurable change for our people and our environment. Whether the focus is on digital equity, environmental sustainability, or expanding pathways into tech careers, amazing work deserves to be recognised – enter or nominate now!
