Empowering the next generation to navigate AI with confidence

In a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping how we learn, connect and communicate, one question is becoming increasingly important: how do we ensure young people feel empowered, not overwhelmed, by the technology around them?

That question sat at the heart of a recent AI workshop delivered through Optus’ ongoing partnership with the KARI Foundation, bringing together Year 10 students for a hands-on, high-energy learning experience designed to build confidence, critical thinking and creativity. Watch the full video from the day here.

Optus is proud to partner with the KARI Foundation, an organisation dedicated to strengthening families and creating opportunities for Aboriginal youth and communities to thrive.

Since launching in 2017, KARI Foundation has expanded its programs across education, cultural connection, early intervention and family support – always with a focus on building resilience and long-term wellbeing.

Together, Optus and KARI Foundation are working to ensure that young people, particularly those from underserved communities, have access to the tools, skills and support they need to navigate an increasingly digital world.

This AI workshop is one example of that commitment in action.

At the start of the day, students were asked a simple question: “AI is…”

The answers reflected a mix of curiosity and uncertainty – words like “confusing,” “cool,” “scary,” and “powerful” filled the wall.

Over the next three hours, that uncertainty transformed into something far more powerful: confidence, awareness and a sense of control.

Through a series of fast-paced, interactive sessions, students explored real-world applications of AI, including:

• How to spot deepfakes and manipulated content
• Understanding bias in AI systems
• Recognising scams and protecting themselves online
• Learning how to write effective prompts to get better outcomes
• Building their own AI-powered digital projects

Rather than being passive observers of technology, students were encouraged to step into the role of creators and critical thinkers.

One of the most impactful moments of the workshop came during the “Create Lab,” where students worked in teams to design and build their own AI-powered web pages.

From safety hubs that help young people spot scams, to creative showcases highlighting bias in AI-generated content, the projects reflected not only technical learning but also empathy, awareness and purpose.

Importantly, students didn’t just leave with ideas. They left with real digital builds they could share, reinforcing the belief that they can actively shape the technology they use.
This hands-on approach is central to Optus’ commitment to digital inclusion and wellbeing, ensuring that access to technology is matched with the skills needed to use it safely and meaningfully.

Beyond the technical skills, the workshop aimed to foster something deeper: a shift in mindset.

Students were encouraged to think about three key ideas throughout the day:

• Potential: AI as a powerful tool for creativity and problem-solving
• Discernment: understanding that quality input drives quality output
• Scepticism: questioning what they see and staying alert online

By the end of the session, many students were not just more informed – they were more thoughtful about their role in a digital society.

As one mentor reflected, the goal wasn’t to turn students into AI experts overnight, but to help them become more confident, aware and curious participants in a fast-changing world.

For many young people, the online world can present both opportunity and risk. From misinformation and scams to social pressure and uncertainty about the future, navigating this space requires more than just access to technology.

It requires guidance, education and trusted support systems.

Through initiatives like this workshop, Optus and KARI Foundation are helping to bridge that gap – supporting not only digital capability, but also mental wellbeing and resilience.
By creating safe, engaging spaces where students can ask questions, experiment and learn together, the program reinforces an important message: you don’t have to have all the answers, but you do have the ability to learn, adapt and make informed choices.

As technology continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between Optus and KARI Foundation play a critical role in ensuring that no one is left behind.

By investing in young people today, especially those in underserved communities, we are helping to build a future where technology is not something that happens to them, but something they can actively shape.

Because when young people are equipped with the right skills, support and confidence, they don’t just navigate the future – they help define it.

Optus supports KARI Foundation by partnering on scholarships for Aboriginal students across New South Wales and Queensland. Optus also supports a one-on-one mentorship program for First Nations students.

Beyond this, Optus’ Donate Your Data program also supports Aboriginal communities, with eligible recipients receiving Prepaid SIMs with data, plus 60GB of data each month from Optus and our customers who have donated it. You can learn more about Donate Your Data here.

Alternatively, you can also support KARI Foundation through the link below.