Avencion with support from Pact Zambia through USAID is providing digital literacy programs for DREAMS beneficiaries. DREAMS is an acronym that stands for Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe. The DREAMS program aims to reduce new HIV infections in adolescent girls and young women (AGYWs), between 10 through 24 years old, across 10 sub-Saharan African countries, through mentoring, HIV testing and counselling, family planning, pre-exposure prophylaxis, school scholarships, and economic strengthening and other interventions.

The digital literacy program being undertaken by Avencion includes digital communication and productivity skills to AGYWs in Zambia. The training is tailor-based to integrate leadership and entrepreneurship skills to build capacity for self-employment or job readiness.

The training is anchored on the following principles:

  1. Acquisition of knowledge through hands on application of concepts to develop practical skills
  2. Leadership tools to build confidence and assertiveness as part of professional development
  3. Technical skills enhancement and linkages to approved mentorship, to expand economic opportunities

Since its inception in 2019 the program has successfully empowered over 3000 adolescent girls and young women. During every training cycle exceptional adolescent girls and young women were identified and recognized as success stories. These DREAMS shareholders defied the odds and proved that success is possible with determination and resilience.

Judith Mun’gandu is a 15-year-old DREAMS shareholder from Chelstone. Despite having a hearing impediment she did not let that stop her. She worked extra hard and achieved an average daily score of 70%.  Her story demonstrates the sky is the limit when you believe in yourself.

Suwilanji Banda is a 22-year-old DREAMS shareholder from a low-income township, John Laing. Suwilanji attended the training with her 6-month-old daughter Christine. The Centre stepped in to provide childcare services during her lessons. Her story is a testimony to the inclusiveness and the safe space environment the DREAMS Centers provide.

 Dainess Mwale a 24-year-old DREAM shareholder from Mandevu who has had a cardiac condition for over 5 years. Despite her condition, she is determined to be a young entrepreneur. Her performance during the training was exemplary.