EmpowerHer Journey
The digital revolution offers huge opportunities around the world. The information and communication technology (ICT) sector is growing rapidly and is profoundly transforming all spheres of life. In Mali, digital technology is starting to gain momentum, particularly in Bamako. The Walen association in partnership with the JOFA – ACTE Project offered the opportunity to 20 young girls to strengthen their digital skills and access new professional and entrepreneurial perspectives in order to fight against child labour, especially in its worst forms.
A training that initiates changes
As part of JOFA's action plan, this bootcamp aimed to support major initiatives on child protection and the fight against the worst forms of child labour through digital technology. It offered the participants a unique opportunity to discover the digital world, a sector still little explored by women in Mali as Salimata SOUGANE testifies in her words :
Before participating in the EmpowerHer bootcamp; I had some notions about digital technology. But this training allowed me to strengthen my skills significantly. I have also developed my expertise in the creation of no-code websites, especially with WordPress, as well as graphic design with Canva. This gave me a more strategic vision of the field.
Digital technology: a tool to fight against Worst Forms of Child Labour
Young girls have acquired essential digital skills, enabling them not only to grow professionally, but also to become leaders and agents of change in their communities for the well-being of children. As for Salimata :
After this training; I was able to carry out several projects, including the creation of a website for a training firm. I plan to launch an e-commerce site as well as offer wedding card design services. I am committed to further developing my projects and exploring opportunities to contribute to the fight against child labour through digital technology. I plan to participate in digital awareness campaigns; Inform and mobilize the public on this issue by using digitaltechnology to reach a wide audience and encourage commitment to children's rights.
A space for advocacy and continuous awareness
To sustain the gains made and continue to raise awareness; Walen association, a partner of World Vision through the JOFA ACTE project, has created a blog dedicated to the bootcamp. This blog is designed to promote and follow the journey of the 20 young girls and contains more than 20 committed and inspiring blog articles, addressing different themes related to Worst Forms of Child Labour.
Access the blog : https://empowherjourney.wordpress.com/
