April 28, 2026 – In Chiapas, Mexico, WPDI is advancing its Livelihoods pillar by equipping youth and women with practical skills, digital competencies, and entrepreneurial tools that support long-term economic inclusion. Through digital literacy and entrepreneurship training, these initiatives reflect WPDI’s integrated approach: linking technical knowledge with confidence-building and real-world application.
Building Digital Competencies for Everyday Use
In March, 28 students at the « Mi Patria es Primero » middle school in San José Buena Vista participated in an advanced ICT workshop focused on safe and effective digital engagement. Students learned how to protect personal information, identify risks such as identity theft, and make informed decisions about social media use. They also built practical skills, including document creation and organization, file transfer between devices, email management, and the use of cloud-based tools such as Google Drive. This approach ensures participants not only know how to use technology but also understand how to navigate it responsibly and independently.
« I’ve learned how to send emails, Word documents, and PDFs. What I liked best was that I learned a lot about using a computer, and now I can help my family create documents. »
—Héctor de Jesús Vázquez Jiménez, Student
« What I liked most about the workshop was learning how to work on a computer. Thanks to the workshop, I now know how to sign up my siblings for the Rita Cetina scholarship (a scholarship for elementary school students covering school supplies and uniforms). »
— Wendy Marisol Shilón Gómez, Student
For many, these skills are already extending beyond the classroom, supporting both learning and daily life.
Strengthening Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Agency
Between February and March, 11 women completed WPDI’s three-level entrepreneurship training program, progressing from foundational concepts to advanced business development. Participants developed competencies in branding, marketing, financial management, and business planning. They defined their brand identities and aligned their products with growth strategies. A key milestone was the introduction of intellectual property and trademark registration. For many, verifying the availability of their business names marked a shift from informal activity to formal enterprise.
« These courses provide us with learning opportunities that allow us to grow… and become successful entrepreneurs. »
— Claudia Lizeth Arévalo Córdova, Business Trainee
« I didn’t have the knowledge I have now; how to create my brand, manage my business, and calculate profit. »
— Elizabeth del Carmen Suárez Díaz, Business Trainee
Participants also built networks with other women entrepreneurs, strengthening collaboration and shared learning.
An Integrated Approach to Livelihoods
Together, these initiatives demonstrate the relevance and value of WPDI’s scalable livelihoods model, combining skills development, practical application, and confidence-building. By supporting both digital inclusion and entrepreneurship, WPDI is creating pathways where skills translate into opportunity, and opportunity becomes the foundation for long-term economic resilience.
In partnership with
