Making an impact
And it seems to be making a difference for many of the 120
boys and girls, between 14 and 24 years old, that have participated
in the pilot. "I'm learning to be patient and to reflect
about events, and especially how to get on in a group where
people have totally different ideas," says Raquel dos
Santos.
Technology is not utilized as an end, but as a means to make
citizens out of these youths. "I used to take on commitments
but hardly ever turned up," says Lesly Karen. "The
Digital Garage has showed me what responsibility really means."
It has also been a powerful source of self-esteem, showing
these young people that they are capable of doing things that
they did not believe were possible. "I've learned to
have more faith in myself. I've also been motivated a lot,
which has made me want to progress," says Ana Carolina
dos Santos. And this experience extends into many aspects
of their lives. Lucimeire Benedito puts it this way: "I
started to ask more questions at school. When I had any doubts
before, I didn't do anything about it. Now I do."
"I think my major achievement was breaking down the
barrier between myself and the computer," says Sabrina
Sant'ana. "I believe that I've developed more self-esteem
as a result. I no longer feel such a stranger in this digital
era."
Planning for sustainability
In order to ensure that the program addresses local needs
and is sustainable over the long term, HP is collaborating
closely with three Brazilian social organizations to develop
and manage the program: the Boys from Morumbi Association,
a percussion and dance company for low-income youths; the
Apprentice City School Association, which focuses on art education
and innovation; and the Abrinq Foundation, which promotes
the protection of the rights of children.
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