Australian of the Year

Sheena Edwards is a passionate advocate for digital inclusion and the belief that no one should be left behind in an increasingly digital world. 

As founder and leader of Switched On Seniors, Sheena has spent more than a decade helping older people gain confidence and practical skills to navigate smartphones, tablets and everyday digital life. Her approach is simple but powerful: patient, face-to-face learning, ongoing support and a safe group environment where there are no silly questions. 

Under Sheena’s leadership, Switched On Seniors has become more than a digital education program. It is a place where older people build friendships, overcome isolation, reconnect with their communities and regain independence in managing their lives. 

Sheena’s empathy, determination and commitment to lifelong learning are helping challenge the assumption that older people cannot or do not want to engage with technology – demonstrating that with the right support, confidence can grow at any age.