Technology Salon

May 21st Toronto Salon – RSVP Now

We have all seen the pretty pictures of children playing with fancy new gadgets, and while the photos are uplifting, do they really signify progress?

• Does the introduction of new technology, specifically information and communication technologies like mobile phones, computers, and the Internet really accelerate the social and economic advancement of the developing world?
• Will Asian Tigers and African Lions use wireless communications and new big and open data systems to leapfrog legacy infrastructure and reap digital as well as demographic dividends?
• Or might we be overestimating the reach of modern technology? Could new solutions and their diffusion patterns inevitably widen the digital divide?
• And are we actually imposing Western values and suppressing local businesses with extractive electronic tools no better than colonial powers of the past?

These are the big questions we'll be asking, and seeking answers to, at the 1st Technology Salon Canada on May 21st in Toronto, Ontario with Development Wisdom.

Please RSVP now to join an intimate gathering of 35 thought leaders and decision makers in technology and international development for what will be a lively yet informal discussions on the opportunities and challenges in using the tools of tomorrow to create lasting change today.

We will be joined by three noted experts in the field who will start the session with their thoughts on the topic:

1. Jacob Korenblum, CEO of Souktel Development Solutions
2. Meredith Lee, Program Manager at MasterCard Foundation
3. Mark Leclair, Knowledge Manager at Farm Radio International

Then, we'll quickly jump into the heart of the Salon – an open and lively discussion moderated by Wayan Vota co-founder of Technology Salon, with everyone participating as equal peers with their thoughts, ideas, and opinions.

We’ll have hot coffee and a light breakfast for a morning rush but seating is limited, so be sure to RSVP now to be confirmed for attendance. RSVP is required and once we reach our 35-person capacity there will be a waiting list.