Youth voices are critical in shaping a safer internet. Given that the internet is a space where kids explore their identities and make important connections, it is crucial that they help inform the resources to navigate it safely. That’s why Thorn formed the NoFiltr Youth Innovation Council two years ago. The Council consists of 22 passionate teens who are dedicated to digital safety. It provides a unique space for young people to openly share their online experiences and discuss issues that directly affect them. Involving youth is vital to raising awareness of combating issues young people face online, such as sextortion, grooming, and cyberbullying. NoFiltr’s Resource Hub is packed with educational pieces co-created by its young members and designed for their peers and the community at large. By bringing teens’ voices to the table, Thorn ensures that tech platforms gain invaluable insights. The Council holds workshops with tech companies where they can speak with youth directly. Hearing the challenges teens encounter online and their ideas for digital safety — as Discord recently did — allows platforms to more effectively and inclusively design their child safety features, taking a true youth-informed approach.
The young members of the Youth Innovation Council are at the forefront of dynamic digital safety conversations. In celebration of Safer Internet Day, we sat down with these current and future thought leaders to hear about the issues they face and advice they have for tech companies. They shared their thoughts on digital safety issues, positive experiences online, uncomfortable situations, and their vision for a safer internet. For instance, they highlighted the importance of technology companies’ involvement and the role parents can play in promoting online safety for young people.
At Thorn, we are thankful to the Youth Innovation Council for sharing their experiences and fostering an open, safe, and judgment-free dialogue on these tricky topics. No one understands what it’s like to be a teen navigating the internet like teens themselves. That’s why their thoughts matter so highly as we strive to build a safer internet for all. Check out the NoFiltr Youth Innovation Council’s recent partnership with Discord, in which they helped the platform better understand how teens want to feel on Discord, and what it takes to ensure they do.