Buzzly Recognised on the Global Stage for Civic Innovation

We’re proud to share that Buzzly has been recognised as a global winner in the Government & Citizen Engagement category at the 2024 World Summit Awards (WSA) — one of the world’s leading honours for digital impact solutions.

Chosen from over 400 international entries, Buzzly’s story — rooted in South Auckland, powered by rangatahi, and focused on bridging the gap between youth and institutions — stood out for its bold approach to civic engagement and digital inclusion. This achievement reinforces the leadership role Auckland Council and The Southern Initiative (TSI) continue to play in designing future-facing, community-led solutions.

 Buzzly at the WSA Global Congress – India, 2025

Earlier this year, Buzzly lead Joel Umali attended the WSA Global Congress in Telangana, India, representing our region among a global cohort of digital changemakers.

The theme of the Congress, Digital, Democracy and Us, sparked rich conversations around digital equity, trust in democratic systems, and the importance of co-creating technology with those most impacted. Joel noted strong resonance with Buzzly’s kaupapa across the international community:

“Buzzly’s story — and the values behind it — truly connected with people from all over the world. It showed that Auckland is not just participating in civic innovation — we’re leading.”
— Joel Umali Buzzly

Double Honour: Datascape Award Winner

Alongside global recognition, Buzzly also received the Datascape Award for Excellence in Digital Local Government, celebrating its role in transforming how rangatahi connect with local opportunities.

These awards reflect what’s possible when youth are empowered .

Looking Ahead: New Collaborations

During the Congress, Buzzly initiated partnerships with two global social enterprises interested in co-developing learning content. These collaborations could help expand Buzzly’s reach and educational resources — ensuring the platform continues to evolve with and for young people.

Thank You:

This milestone would not have been possible without the belief and support of the people who have championed Buzzly from day one — from community partners and whānau, to Auckland Council leaders and our rangatahi. Your commitment has helped take a local innovation to the world stage.

We’d also like to acknowledge that Buzzly builds on the legacy of UpSouth — an early platform for rangatahi voice — and the foundational work of Ayla Hoeta, whose leadership helped shape the vision we carry forward today.

We look forward to sharing more updates as Buzzly continues to grow, collaborate, and lead the way in digital democracy and youth engagement.

Learn more about the WSA Global Winners: WSA 2024 Winners