The Safe Sisters Fellowship training was initially met with apprehension, as it appeared to be a complex endeavour in the realm of digital security mechanisms and tools. However, as the training progressed, it became more tailored to the participants’ needs, even covering fundamental tools.
From the outset of the fellowship, discussions about the Safe Sisters Fellowship were initiated within the group, allowing them to become familiar with the program. When the training planning phase commenced following the Needs Assessment, the participants were well-prepared. It’s worth noting that each participant had slightly different interests and expectations, but their awareness of the planning process helped them prepare effectively for the training.
The participants in this fellowship belong to a team at Metei Society, an organization in Manipur led by women, queer, and trans individuals, with a focus on gender and sexual minorities. The success of the training became evident through the enthusiasm displayed by the participants and their expressed interest in future sessions.
One remarkable aspect of this success story is that the participants had limited access to high-end, fully functional devices. Instead, they owned modestly priced, old, and used phones. Despite this limitation, their commitment to learning and building their digital skills was unwavering.
What stands out the most in this entire experience is the participants’ proactive request for further training sessions to enhance their technical and digital skills. This eagerness to learn demonstrates their dedication to improving their work skills and the impact they can make through Metei Society. For this, full day workshops which delve deeper into each topic addressed and trained by experts are ideally required in an environment of inclusive and affirmative workshop space and facilitation.
The customized nature of the training played a significant role in its success. By tailoring the content to meet the specific needs and interests of the participants, the training became more engaging and relevant. This approach also ensured that participants could immediately apply what they learned to their work at Metei Society.
Furthermore, the collaborative nature of the training planning, where the group was involved from the beginning, fostered a sense of ownership and commitment among the participants. They were not passive recipients of training; they were active contributors to the process.
The fact that this success story originates from a women, queer, and trans-led organization is significant. It highlights the importance of inclusive and diverse participation in digital capacity-
building initiatives. It demonstrates that regardless of background or access to resources, individuals are eager to acquire the skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.
The enthusiasm displayed by the participants serves as a testament to the impact of the Safe Sisters Fellowship. It not only empowered them with digital skills but also ignited a desire for continuous learning and growth. This success story serves as a model for how such initiatives can have a lasting impact on individuals and organizations striving for positive change in their communities.
In conclusion, the successful Safe Sisters Fellowship training exemplifies the transformative power of customized, collaborative, and inclusive digital capacity-building programs. It underscores the resilience and determination of individuals, even in the face of limited resources, to acquire the skills needed to advance their mission and create a positive impact in their community. This success story is a beacon of inspiration for future initiatives aiming to empower marginalized and underrepresented groups in the digital age.
The Bachchao Project is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 Safe Sisters India Fellowship program. This program will run from April – June 2023.