cyber issues facing companies and organisations today , encompassing learning how to identify and reduce risk , brand and reputation management , staff training , digital responsibility among employees and the importance of policies .
As part of the Cyber EQ-IQ Project , John also works with victims of cybercrime in Southland and their families , including those who have been cyber abused and victims of sexting .
Karen says cyber safety is a topic that really resonates across the ages , and southerners are very grateful to have access to education and expertise of the calibre John provides .
“ We ’ ve only just started the latest round of workshops , and we ’ re already getting in emails from participants calling it ‘ inspirational ’ and among the best professional development they ’ ve ever had .
“ John really connects with his audience , whatever their age or background . Young kids are going home and raving about it to their families , and people are already asking to book another session .”
Fraser says his club ’ s decision to back the Cyber EQ-IQ Project was a no-brainer .
“ With more and more of our life shifting online , it ’ s crucial that Southlanders are aware of strategies to protect themselves in the digital world ,” he says .
Sessions are booking fast , Karen says , although there are still some dates available for this year . Registrations have also opened for next year . Because of Rotary ’ s backing , all sessions are free , but any donations are gratefully received .
But it wasn ’ t just the victims who were reached and helped . Eight perpetrators of bullying came forward after attending the sessions .”
Under the new framework , the Rotary Club of Invercargill East has taken over the running of the programme , with Karen contracted as project administrator .
“ As a parent myself , I attended one of the cyber safety workshops at my daughter Georgia ’ s school , and I know I now feel I have far more knowledge and confidence to help keep my children – and my beautiful grandson – safe ; and that ’ s what it ’ s all about , isn ’ t it ?”
Karen Purdue , past district governor , Cyber EQ-IQ Project administrator
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