Digital Literacy, AI Literacy & Youth Economic Mobility with Nancy from Pi515

What’s the difference between digital literacy and AI literacy—and why does it matter for the future of work?

In this episode, Corey sits down with Nancy Mwirotsi, founder of Pi515, to break down how technology is shaping economic mobility for youth. They explore why basic digital skills are still missing, how AI tools are changing critical thinking, and what it takes to prepare the next generation for real opportunities.

Nancy shares her journey building Pi515 to support underserved and refugee youth through tech education. She also explains how exposure, mentorship, and hands-on learning can change a child’s trajectory.

If you care about education, workforce development, or closing opportunity gaps, this conversation will challenge how you think about tech and youth development.

Show Notes

What you’ll learn:

•  The difference between digital literacy and AI literacy 
•  Why many students still lack basic tech skills 
•  How AI tools can weaken or strengthen critical thinking 
•  The role of mentorship in shaping career paths 
•  How tech access impacts economic mobility 
•  Why youth need exposure to real-world opportunities 
•  The risks of over-relying on AI tools 
•  How to prepare kids for the future of work 

Key Moments:

•  00:00 – Introduction to Nancy and Pi515 
•  03:00 – How Pi515 started and supporting refugee youth 
•  05:30 – Why exposure shapes career possibilities 
•  09:00 – Digital literacy vs AI literacy explained 
•  13:00 – The danger of overusing AI tools 
•  17:00 – Skills youth need for future jobs 
•  20:00 – AI risks: misinformation and deepfakes 
•  22:30 – How parents and educators can guide kids 
•  27:00 – Best AI tools and how to use them wisely 
•  32:00 – Youth, entrepreneurship, and making money with AI 
•  34:00 – Why talent leaves cities like Des Moines 
•  40:00 – Building innovation ecosystems for the future 

Notable Quotes:

•  “Kids cannot be what they don’t see.” 
•  “Digital literacy is basic skills. AI literacy is understanding the tool, the ethics, and the impact.” 
•  “You can’t let the tool do the thinking for you.” 
•  “We need to empower young people as leaders, not just learners.” 

Resources & Links:

•  Pi515: https://pi515.org

Call to Action:

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