Community-Centred Technology

This talk will share Janastu's experiences as a technology non-profit working alongside rural and marginalised communities to build community-owned digital infrastructures using free and open-source technologies. Drawing from initiatives such as mesh networks, local-first applications designed for low-connectivity environments, community radio platforms, and AI-based voice anonymisation tools for protecting vulnerable voices, the session will explore how technology can be co-created with communities rather than merely deployed for them. The talk will highlight both the possibilities and challenges of developing sustainable, community-led technological solutions that prioritise local needs, participation, privacy, and digital autonomy.