Reprogramming the Feed: Making Space for Kindness Online | Akoni Tech Talks with Sarah Browning

In this week’s episode of Akoni Tech Talks with Sarah Browning, the Chief Kindness Cheerleader at the Time for Kindness wellbeing programme, we explore Sarah’s personal journey and the inspiration behind founding the initiative, which aims to spotlight and amplify everyday acts of kindness. Rooted in her background in communications and storytelling, Sarah launched the programme in response to a growing sense that kindness — though widespread — is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world. We discuss how the initiative began with sharing stories of kindness on social media and evolved into delivering workshops and talks that help individuals and organisations develop the habit of noticing kindness. Sarah explains the psychological and emotional power of kindness — not only in performing it, but also in witnessing or receiving it — and challenges the misconception that kindness is weak or superficial. The episode also reflects on the themes raised in the Netflix series Adolescence, linking them to the importance of promoting kindness in online spaces. As the series highlights the mental health challenges and social pressures faced by young people, we consider how digital culture shapes public narratives — particularly around teenagers — and how cultivating kindness and empathy online can act as a powerful counterbalance. We also explore the importance of self-kindness, setting digital boundaries, and creating healthier, more compassionate digital environments.