On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, BAPS Charities hosted “Click with Confidence,” a full-day educational event in Toronto, ON, designed to help seniors build confidence in using technology safely and effectively while increasing awareness of cyber security, online fraud, and responsible technology use.
The event welcomed 235 participants aged 60 and above from across the Greater Toronto Area and was organized as part of the New Horizons for Seniors Program. The workshop provided seniors with practical knowledge and hands-on learning opportunities related to smartphones, video calling, social media, online services, online banking, and digital communication. Through educational sessions, interactive activities, and guidance from youth volunteers, participants gained valuable skills to help them stay connected with loved ones, access services, and protect themselves from online threats.
The day began with registration and breakfast, followed by a welcome session and well-being prayer. The opening session encouraged participants to reflect on the role of technology in everyday life and how it can be used responsibly and purposefully. Participants were encouraged to use technology as a tool for personal growth, learning, and staying connected.
A comprehensive cyber awareness session followed, providing participants with valuable information about the growing risks associated with online activity. The presentation explored common forms of cybercrime, including financial fraud, identity theft, extortion, ransomware, remote access scams, data breaches, spoofing applications, customer service scams, delivery scams, and investment fraud. Participants learned practical strategies for protecting their personal information, recognizing warning signs of fraudulent activity, creating secure passwords, and safeguarding sensitive documents and accounts. The session also highlighted the importance of remaining cautious when receiving unexpected phone calls, emails, messages, or requests for personal information.
In addition to learning about cyber security and fraud prevention, participants explored how technology can be used as a positive tool in daily life. Discussions highlighted the benefits of smartphones, video calling platforms, social media applications, online services, and digital banking tools. Seniors learned how technology can help them communicate with family and friends, access important information and services, and remain connected with their communities while maintaining safe online practices.
Following a break, participants took part in an interactive workshop titled “Cyber Introspection.” English and Gujarati self-assessment forms were distributed, encouraging participants to reflect on their personal technology habits and screen usage. Through guided questions and discussions, participants considered whether technology was serving them effectively or whether excessive screen time and digital distractions were having a negative impact on their daily lives. The workshop encouraged honest self-reflection and provided an opportunity for participants to evaluate their relationship with technology.
After lunch, participants gathered in small groups for facilitated discussions. Seated around tables, participants reviewed key lessons from the morning sessions and shared personal experiences related to online scams, fraud attempts, and digital security concerns. The discussions provided an opportunity for seniors to learn from one another, exchange practical advice, and reinforce the importance of remaining vigilant in an increasingly digital world.
The afternoon continued with an engaging Kahoot quiz competition hosted by youth volunteers who served as “Tech Buddies” throughout the event. The volunteers assisted participants with digital devices, guided them through technology-based activities, and helped reinforce concepts introduced during the workshop. Using laptops at each table, participants answered questions related to cyber awareness, online scams, digital security, and responsible technology use. The activity strengthened learning outcomes while creating opportunities for intergenerational engagement and collaboration.
The event concluded with a motivational presentation focused on the importance of using technology wisely and purposefully, particularly during the senior years. Participants were encouraged to use technology as a tool for learning, reading, listening to uplifting content, and staying connected with family and community. The presentation also highlighted the importance of maintaining balance, exercising self-discipline, and ensuring that technology remains under one’s control rather than becoming a source of distraction. Seniors were reminded to make the most of their time, focus on activities that contribute to personal well-being, and remain mindful of the amount of time spent on digital devices.
Throughout the day, participants had opportunities to learn practical cyber safety skills, engage in self-reflection, participate in interactive activities, share personal experiences, and strengthen community connections. The combination of educational presentations, group discussions, hands-on activities, and motivational guidance created an engaging environment that empowered seniors to use technology safely, confidently, and responsibly.
The event received positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the opportunity to learn practical strategies for protecting themselves online while connecting with fellow seniors in a supportive learning environment.
Kala Narendra Makkan, participant, shared, “I learned a lot about scams and online fraud. The sessions were very informative, and I enjoyed spending time with other seniors. The Kahoot game was excellent because it helped us learn while having fun. I hope there will be more events like this in the future.”
Phiroz Marolia, participant, shared, “I enjoyed the whole program. The Kahoot activity was especially helpful because it reinforced the information from the sessions in a fun and memorable way. I learned many useful tips that I can apply in my daily life.”
Through initiatives such as Click with Confidence, BAPS Charities continues to support seniors by creating opportunities for lifelong learning, digital literacy, community engagement, and personal development. Supported through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, the event equipped seniors with practical tools and knowledge to safely navigate today’s digital world, connect with family and friends, access important services, and confidently use technology in their daily lives. The workshop also fostered meaningful intergenerational connections through the support of youth volunteers who helped seniors explore and better understand digital tools and technology.
