We are delighted to welcome Miriam Gosling from Congo Calling to talk about the human rights implications of generating the raw materials used in our mobile phones, tablets and games consoles in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).  

In 2012 at TEDxExeter, social justice activist Bandi Mbubi’s called for the development of fair trade technology which uses ethically-sourced, conflict-free minerals from the DRC. Miriam will introduce us to Congo Calling, a programme designed to draw attention to atrocities being committed in the DRC, and to start the conversation about a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war fuelled by the conflict caused by mining minerals. Congo Calling's vision is for a peaceful and just Congo, where people can live in stable and prosperous communities, where children are not enlisted, where women are not raped as an instrument of war, and where miners work for fair wages in human conditions.

Miriam Gosling trained as a Stage Manager following graduation from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Having had a career on large-scale commercial tours she decided she wanted to dedicate her time to helping those in need and so made the change from theatre to charity work in 2013. She currently works for The Invisible Circus in Bristol and as Programme Coordinator for Congo Calling, a small UK based NGO. Miriam is a Trustee for FUN Club and a member of the TEDx Exeter team.

This Lunchtime Talk is part of Open Studio Friday, which takes place at the Studio every week.

Do you want to find out what is going on at the Pervasive Media Studio? Are you interested in meeting our residents, talking about a specific project or curious about pervasive media? Why not pack a sandwich and join us for one of our Lunchtime Talks and Open Studio Friday.

Lunchtime Talks are informal presentations by Studio residents and associates. They normally take place at 1pm on Friday, are free and open to everybody who’s interested in what we do.

After the Talk, we also invite you to stay with us for the afternoon to continue the conversation or work on your own projects. We provide chairs, tables, wireless and a great space. You bring what you need to work with (laptop/mobile). Our open afternoons close at 5pm.

Let us know if you’d like a tour of the space and we'll be happy to show you around. Send an email to admin@pmstudio.co.uk