From Doubt to Digital Success: Empowering Youth Against Extremism

Satria, an out-of-school youth from Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur, joined the Elevate AIDA training hoping to gain new skills and explore online work opportunities. What she did not expect was how profoundly it would change her mindset, confidence, and future prospects – all of which contribute to reducing vulnerability to violent extremism.

After completing the programme, Satria noticed meaningful changes in herself. Her outlook became more positive, and she grew more open to new ideas. She learned to see challenges not as barriers but as opportunities to grow. Her confidence in communicating with others increased, and she began to feel capable of working online from home. Before, she hesitated to try remote work for fear of making mistakes; now she is determined to keep learning and improving.

The training helped her build discipline, plan her tasks more effectively, and manage her time, essential skills for both online employment and personal resilience. These changes have strengthened her sense of purpose and reduced the feelings of doubt and hopelessness that once held her back, addressing key drivers that can make youth susceptible to extremist recruitment.

New opportunities soon followed. With a clearer understanding of online work and the skills required, Satria applied for a remote position as a survey enumerator and was accepted. After completing a month of survey work, she was invited back for a second round because of her strong performance using Google Workspace tools, which she learned during the training.

The programme also helped her build meaningful connections with fellow trainees and mentors who continue to guide and support her. Whenever she has questions, they are ready to help, strengthening her network of positive, protective relationships.

Today, Satria is motivated to keep building a stable online career. She feels proud that she can earn income from home and contribute to her family’s needs. Her journey shows how equipping young people with skills, confidence, and opportunities is essential to preventing violent extremism and creating pathways toward a safer, more resilient future.