Originally hailing from Bangladesh, Umme Mahmud has worked as a Senior Planet Trainer in NYC for the past eight years. We caught up with Umme this month to talk about why she is passionate about sharing her passion for technology. What are some of your favorite parts about being a trainer?

What do you love about being a Senior Planet trainer? 

Senior Planet is my second home. As trainers, we help older adults use technology to reach their goals and it is a very rewarding experience. I enjoy Senior Planet’s culture/atmosphere, where knowledge sharing is everywhere and no question is too small to be asked. 

“Age doesn’t define us, our attitude does.”

What is a piece of advice you often share with class participants? 

I advise class participants to be patient and believe in themselves. Sometimes people get frustrated and think that technology is not for them because of limited technology literacy or unfamiliarity with the English language. I try my best to make the material easy to understand. 

There’s nothing more fulfilling than using your passion to help others, and as a technology trainer, I do exactly that. Using my skills, I help people reach their goals, and function better in their everyday lives. 

What are some passions/pastimes you have outside of work?  

I love interior design! I collect interior design magazines. 

What does Aging with Attitude mean to you?  

Age doesn’t define us, our attitude does. Growing older is about recognizing that there is always more of the world, and of yourself, to explore. 

YOUR TURN

Got a fave trainer? Let us know in the comments so we can highlight them!  Got a special favorite?  Dedicate your donation in their honor!  Click here to give.

The government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is no longer accepting new applications and currently winding down for existing households receiving the benefit. When the ACP ends, so will the internet company’s discounted rate. To learn more, visit here. 

Pam Hugi is Senior Planet’s Community and Advocacy Manager. Based in Brooklyn, she is a contributing writer for this site.