Where I Work: SA Digital Connects Close

Written by Rhia Pape

San Antonio, Texas – It feels like I’ve always been on this journey despite having been here for less than six months. Heading SA Digital Connects, a three-pronged initiative from the private, public, and community, targeted at closing the digital divide in San Antonio and Bexar County is recognition-filled, intricate yet fulfilling.

A Purpose-Driven Role

As executive director at SA Digital Connects, I stand at the junction of my passion for service and an irresistible desire towards effective systemic enhancement. I am now an integral part of the creation of better economic prosperity for people and their families. I’m playing a role in positively changing our society, and being part of the mission to close the digital divide in our area is a great place to start!

Addressing the Digital Divide

The term “digital divide” denotes the calamitous scenario where certain members of our society lack access to the internet, can’t afford reliable online services, and lack the requisite expertise or devices to efficiently utilize the internet. However, to thrive in today’s digital society, access to the internet and the competency to use it effectively is a non-negotiable prerequisite. The internet facilitates job searching and application, resume creation and submission, college applications and attendance, and access to healthcare services, which all play a crucial role in reducing social isolation and finding adequate housing.

Collaborative Efforts

The beauty of this cause is that I’m not alone in tackling it. We have a coalition of digital investment champions who offer collaboration and push for progress in these endeavours. Our private sector associates appreciate the value in bridging this digital chasm, realizing that said bridge’s return on investment is measurable via a more skilled workforce, higher educational accomplishment, plummeting unemployment rates, and increased business formations. Furthermore, our public sector partners have shown tangible commitment by initiating contracts that have successfully connected more than 35,000 households across San Antonio and Bexar County to reliable internet: One of the largest locally-led initiatives in the nation.

A Thorough Model

In addition to the public-private partnership model, which we know is an effective approach, SA Digital Connects has crafted and executed a model that includes key stakeholders and provides direct service to our residents. This public-private-community model continues to demonstrate significant success towards achieving our collective objectives. Undeniably, the strength of our private sector, the passion of our public sector, and the dedication of our community establishments confirm the imminent shift from a digital divide to digital dividends.

Result-Oriented Work

The task can be costly and arduous, demanding sustained coordination, persuasive influence in strategic places, and unyielding leadership. However, I love the challenge. I love the work that tackles big problems that have no clear-cut solutions. That’s what strikes my interest and keeps me enthusiastic. Our work is creating a significant impact across our community. The access to reliable, affordable internet translates to socio-economic mobility for present and future generations, supports local businesses to succeed in a digital world, and aids residents to utilize online banking tools. There are tremendous returns in having access to reliable, affordable internet and feeling safe, secure and confident online.

This type of work is not meant to last forever. Successfully bridging the digital divide means I have to put myself out of a job. And that uncertain future? Well, there’s probably a new mission, critical problem to solve, and a community to serve when that time comes. I’m up for the challenge.