Recoding the future of camp-bound refugees

"My life before was very tough. I had no activity that could help me generate any income. My family and I were really suffering," says Joseph, a participant in the Pathfinder Digital Inclusion Program, Malawi.

"Now my life has changed completely. With the money that I earn online, I can cover our daily needs."

Joseph, 24, is one of 56,000 people living in the Dzaleka camp in Malawi. Life in Dzaleka is extremely challenging for our sisters and brothers. Resettlement takes an average of 21-26 years, and during those long years, movement is restricted with very limited opportunity to leave the camp to earn a livelihood. As a result, many people live in poverty, forced to rely on food rations to survive.

To help create income streams for camp-bound refugees, our local partner Jesuit Refugee Service Malawi runs the Pathfinder Digital Inclusion Program.

With the kind support of people like you, this innovative program trains over 400 participants each year in marketable digital skills.

Comprehensive courses empower students to compete in the global online job market and earn valuable income from freelancing and remote work.

Joseph first became involved in the program in 2021, and has become a top-earning freelancer, consistently making enough money to support himself and his family.

Over the last three years, Joseph has worked hard to hone his skills and expand his online services, frequently engaging other community members to work on projects.

"I receive contracts in Data Management with Artificial Intelligence companies that require native people who can speak local languages. I hire people to work with me, and the money I pay them helps my community to live a better life," he explains.

As graduates like Joseph harness their skills and uplift their community, there is a new feeling of hope for the future within the confines of the Dzaleka camp.

"With Digital Inclusion, all our dreams become true," he says.

Reflections Summer #634

This month's eNews stories are part of our Reflections Summer publication #634.

Click here to read the latest edition of Reflections to see how your compassion is empowering lives around the world.