Overcoming Barriers through Digital Literacy
When Bibi Roya Azami arrived in the United States in 2021 from Afghanistan, she was confronted with a significant challenge that many immigrants face: the language barrier. This barrier became painfully evident when her daughter suffered a severe infection. “Despite my efforts, I could not communicate the situation to the hospital staff,” Bibi Roya recalls, highlighting a moment of deep frustration and helplessness.
Determined to overcome these communication hurdles and regain control over her and her family’s healthcare decisions, Bibi Roya turned to Simplify Global Education (SGE), where she not only embarked on learning English but also began her journey in digital literacy.
At SGE, Bibi Roya has made remarkable strides in mastering digital tools that are essential in today’s world. “I have gone from not being able to use a mobile or computer to now being able to read and write emails, use a computer, and navigate Microsoft Word,” she shares. This newfound digital proficiency has opened many doors for Bibi Roya, allowing her to manage personal and professional tasks more effectively and independently. Her progress in digital literacy is not just about acquiring new skills but about transforming her daily life. The ability to use technology has empowered Bibi Roya to perform tasks that many take for granted, like scheduling doctor’s appointments, communicating with her children’s school, and accessing important information online. Each of these steps forward marks a significant victory in her journey of adaptation and self-sufficiency in a new country.
Currently continuing her education in the pre-intermediate English class at SGE, Bibi Roya has come a long way from her initial days in the U.S. “I had limited experience with English before coming to the US, but now I am able to communicate and solve my problems more effectively,” she explains. Her dedication to both language and digital literacy is a testament to her resilience and determination to succeed.
Bibi Roya is now set on a path to further her career in the medical field, equipped with the language and digital skills necessary to thrive. She enthusiastically recommends SGE’s classes to others, especially emphasizing the digital literacy components that have so significantly impacted her life.
Bibi Roya Azami’s story underscores the empowering impact of digital literacy for immigrants, highlighting how mastering these essential skills can lead to greater independence and confidence in navigating new environments. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the pivotal role it plays in building new futures.