Media Release: Girls of Impact Wraps Up Digital Literacy Programme!
Port-of-Spain, December 14, 2023
Girls of Impact (GOI) Trinidad and Tobago proudly announced the successful completion of its trailblazing EmpowerHER: Leading with Digital Literacy Programme held during the period October 14th to December 14th, 2023, with a cohort of approximately eleven (11) young women. This initiative marked a significant milestone in the GOI’s commitment to the International Day of the Girl Child’s mission, that of enhancing educational access by providing quality education and opening new opportunities for girls.
Read more about the Programme here!
Designed specifically to uplift young women in rural Trinidad, the EmpowerHER programme was focused on closing the digital gap and cultivating leadership abilities. The programme was aimed at developing vital life skills and expanding their educational opportunities, fostering economic empowerment, enhancing participation in decision-making processes, and contributing to the broader development of communities. A key focus of the programme was addressing the significant deficit in digital literacy and leadership training in these rural areas, where numerous girls encounter limited internet access and a noticeable absence of fundamental computer and technological skills.
Embarking on a mission to reshape the narrative, the transformative journey for the enthusiastic participants kicked off on October 14th at the BpTT Mayaro Resource Centre where for seven intensive sessions, they were immersed in a dynamic curriculum that spanned a wide array of critical topics. These sessions, rich in content and engagement, covered Leadership, Digital Literacy, Leadership Styles and Personal Leadership, Online Safety and Cybersecurity, Effective Communication and self-expression, and the use of Digital Tools and Resources. At the end, participants were issued certificates of participation upon completion of the workshop.
Additionally, throughout the programme, eleven (11) young women eagerly absorbed the invaluable advice from the group sessions and mentorships. Guided by a cadre of distinguished professionals, including Wendy Karamath, Cherise Job, Fana Nelson, and Murlin Baird, they gained crucial insights and strategies for adeptly navigating the intricacies of the corporate world in today’s digital landscape. This experience not only equipped them with essential skills but also empowered them to confidently step into their future careers.
Furthermore, the programme featured a series of impactful bi-weekly sessions with keynote speakers. These included Ms. Kemba Cox, who expertly guided discussions on Personal Branding and Self-Care; the dynamic Mr. Gyasi and Mrs. Shanielle Greaves-Ambrose, who delved into the critical nuances of Digital Ethics; Mr. Jeron Hackett, who enlightened attendees on the essentials of Financial Literacy; and Mrs. Sermoya Sandiford-Baisden, who offered profound insights into Goal Setting and ‘Levelling Up”. These sessions provided invaluable knowledge, equipping our young women to tackle the challenges of the digital future and beyond.
With the successful completion of the EmpowerHER programme, GOI looks forward to unveiling upcoming initiatives designed to further this mission. We therefore extend the call for new members to join the GOI on this noble cause as we continue to shape the future of female leadership. Your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of many aspiring young women.
Mentee Testimonial:
The EmpowerHER: Leading with Digital Literacy Programme by Girls of Impact T&T has been a resounding success, as evidenced by the enthusiastic testimonial of a participant who shared her transformative experience. Her account offers a testament to the effectiveness and far-reaching benefits of this initiative.
I thoroughly enjoyed this programme. It provided the insight and tools needed for me to launch my business in nail artistry – ‘Likka’s Nail Supplies’. With guidance from my mentor and the group sessions hosted by Girls of Impact, I was inspired to work towards my dream of becoming an entrepreneur. I attained additional certifications to enhance my skills in the field and now have a small clientele base within my community. I am grateful for all that I have learned through the Empower HER: Digital Literacy Programme!
MALIKA LAMORELL, a mentee from the community of Mayaro was mentored by Fana Nelson.