Teaching Tech, Finding Purpose: My Journey with Community Trainings
I never thought a packed community room — filled with nearly a hundred people eager to learn about AI — could leave such a lasting impact, not just on the participants, but on me, too.
When I first offered to lead a basic tech training, it wasn’t about being the expert. It was about creating space. A space where women — many of them homemakers — could ask questions without fear, explore something new, and feel seen in a world that too often tells them tech isn’t for them.
What I didn’t expect was just how deeply fulfilling it would be. Watching someone light up when they realize, “Wait, I can do this?” — that’s the magic. That’s why I keep doing this.
Why I Started Teaching Tech in My Community
I’ve spent years working in cybersecurity and tech — spaces that can often feel intimidating or out of reach for those who aren’t already in them. But tech should be for everyone, not just those with titles or technical backgrounds. And I’ve always believed that sharing what we know can open doors for others.
So I started offering free community sessions. It began with cybersecurity awareness trainings for women’s groups and seniors, covering simple yet essential topics like staying safe online, avoiding scams, and protecting personal information. From there, I hosted a Canva session to help people create everything from resumes to small business flyers — and then, more recently, I began leading AI trainings to introduce tools like ChatGPT.
What started as sessions mainly for women quickly expanded. Soon, I was welcoming men, women, and even children — all eager to learn, explore, and experiment together.
What I’ve Learned Along the Way
Each session has taught me something new. I’ve learned how important it is to meet people where they are, to make space for questions, and to encourage curiosity without judgment. I’ve also learned that some of the most insightful questions and observations come from those who were once too nervous to speak up.
Most of all, I’ve realized that people want to learn. They just need someone to believe in them — to say, “You’ve got this,” and mean it.
Moments That Moved Me
Every session, every interaction leaves a mark. Everyone has a story, and I feel grateful to be even a small part of their journey.
Just recently, I received a call from a woman who had attended one of my trainings. She told me how she had always felt intimidated by technology — unsure if it was something she could ever be comfortable with. She had spent most of her life focused on raising her family, putting her own goals and growth on hold.
But after our session, something shifted. She said, “For the first time, I feel like I can actually do this.” She’s now thinking about going back to school, exploring tech programs, and reentering the workforce — and I’ll be supporting her however I can.
That conversation reminded me why I started this in the first place. These sessions may be about tech on the surface, but at their heart, they’re about possibility. About helping someone rediscover their confidence. About showing them they belong in these spaces.
Advice for Anyone Wanting to Give Back
You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to show up with a willingness to share what you know. Whether it’s a lunch-and-learn, a one-on-one walkthrough, or a community session at your local library — it matters.
Start small. Be patient. Celebrate progress. Even if you impact just one person, that’s enough. The ripple effects will reach farther than you realize.
The impact will be deeper than you think.
The Joy of Shared Learning
These trainings have never been just about tools and tutorials. They’re about confidence, connection, and community. They’ve reminded me how much growth and joy comes from learning together — and how much of a difference we can make when we simply open the door for someone else.
Some of my favorite moments come from the laughter we share — joking around, easing nerves, and creating a space where it’s okay to ask anything. When people feel comfortable, they’re not just learning; they’re thriving.
In giving back, I’ve found purpose.
In helping others grow, I’ve grown too.
And that’s why I’ll keep showing up.
Maliha
Disclaimer: The content on this blog and website reflects a combination of my personal experiences, perspectives, and insights, as well as interviews and contributions from other individuals. It does not represent the opinions, policies, or strategies of any organization I am currently affiliated with or have been affiliated with in the past. This platform serves as a personal space for sharing ideas, lessons learned, and meaningful reflections.
