Podcast
Beyond the Technology: powered by people - building digital together
From building digital communities to driving sector wide change, this episode explores how collaboration, peer support and recognition put people at the heart of digital transformation.
In this episode of Beyond the Technology, recorded live at Digifest 2026, Catherine Evans speaks with Chris Melia and Phil Whitehead about community‑led approaches to developing digital skills. Chris and Phil share practical insights on peer support, recognition and collaboration, and how putting people at the centre can drive meaningful digital change across education.
Show notes
- Listen to more Jisc communities podcasts on Soundcloud
- Access the activating community-led digital skills guide
- Register for the powered by people: community-led transformation in education event
- Subscribe to Headlines - our newsletter which has all the latest edtech news, guidance and events tailored to you
Episode guests

Chris Melia
Collaborative and digital practice lead, University of Lancashire

Phil Whitehead
Director of academic services and digital learning at DN Colleges Group