Meet Juanita: A Digital Navigator Helping Communities Build Tech Confidence

Welcome the newest member of our team, Juanita Zavala, a talented educator who is helping community members of all ages build confidence with technology and access to the resources they need.

As a Digital Navigator, Juanita plays a key role in shaping our programs by staying closely connected to the communities we serve—whether that means adapting lesson plans to reflect local culture or identifying barriers like limited device access.

We sat down with Juanita to learn more about her background, what drives her work, and how her approach is shaped by deep, on-the-ground connections with the people she supports.

What motivated you to work in education and later transition into digital literacy support?

My journey started when I noticed something was different with my son. He stopped talking at age two, and I had to fight to get him properly diagnosed. He was eventually identified with developmental and speech delays, ADHD, and a learning disability. That experience opened my eyes to how difficult it can be to navigate systems alone. I built strong relationships with the therapists and educators who supported us, and I wanted to be that person for other families. I became a paraprofessional in special education and eventually stepped into digital literacy work because I saw how essential tech skills are—especially for those who’ve been left behind. My son is my superhero, and he’s the reason I show up for others.

What do you enjoy most about working directly with community members in your role as a Digital Navigator?

I love that no day is the same. I get to meet people from all walks of life and help them with what they actually need—whether it’s learning how to turn on a flashlight, download apps, or design something in Canva. I like that we’re not locked into a strict curriculum. Instead, we work at each person’s pace and focus on what matters to them. That kind of one-on-one attention is something I’ve always valued, whether with children or adults.

What skills or strengths have helped you succeed in this work?

Patience, for sure. Being a mom to a child with special needs has taught me to slow down, pay attention, and find different ways to teach. I’m also CNA certified, so I’ve worked with people across all ages and stages of life. Whether I’m supporting a senior learning to use a smartphone or a student using assistive tech, I try to meet people where they are and make sure they feel supported.

Are there any moments you’re especially proud of?

There are so many, but one that sticks with me is a student I worked with who’s non-verbal. He learned how to add up to 10 using a communication device, and his face just lit up when he realized what he’d done. 

As a Digital Navigator, I had a senior tell me he used to be terrified of technology. After a few workshops, he was creating personalized photos in Canva and navigating his phone with confidence. It might seem small, but those moments mean everything.

What kind of challenges do people face when it comes to technology?

A lot of people just don’t know where to start. Sometimes they don’t understand their device, or they’re running out of storage and don’t know how to fix it. Others don’t have access at all. That’s why being close to the community matters. We’re able to see what the real issues are, and adjust what we offer based on that.

What do you wish more people knew about digital literacy and access?

Digital equity isn’t just about having internet or a phone—it’s about knowing how to use it to access opportunities. Everyone, no matter their background or age, should have a chance to feel confident with technology. That’s what this work is really about.

Support Digital Equity in Our Communities

Help us expand programs like Digital Navigators, which provide one-on-one tech support and digital education tailored to local needs.

👉 Donate here to support trusted, community-centered digital access.

Want to hear more stories like Juanita’s?

📬 Sign up for our mailing list to stay connected to our work and the people making it possible.