Online learning as an opportunity for people in poverty!

What if you don't have money for lunch out or a visit to the hairdresser? For many people in poverty, these are the first things that fall away. Quiet is committed to giving these people a helping hand, not with basic necessities like food or shelter, but rather with small moments of relaxation and opportunities for personal development.

We spoke with Tessa van Berkel, Project Manager at Quiet Den Bosch, about the importance of education and the collaboration with SkillsTown.

Why is access to education so important for people in poverty?

"Education is important for everyone, but especially for people in poverty," says Tessa. "Many of our members have jobs, but attending training or education just isn't in the cards financially. While that is exactly what can help them move forward. By giving them access to online training, we create equal opportunities."

"For example, one of our members took French lessons through SkillsTown so she could better help her daughter with school. That's exactly what we mean by reinforcement: you do it for yourself, but it works through in your environment."

How do online courses help with self-efficacy?

"For our members, access to online learning primarily means freedom: they can develop at their own pace, at times that work for them," Tessa explains. "And without them needing money to do so. That gives self-confidence, for example when applying for jobs, and increases their chances of getting (volunteer) work."

"The great thing is that it doesn't have to be big steps. A short training session can make all the difference. The feeling of being able to contribute something also plays a big role."

What does the partnership with SkillsTown mean?

"SkillsTown has donated 250 online training subscriptions to Quiet. This started as a pilot in Den Bosch, but other cities have since joined. The offer is broad and accessible. One of our members has already obtained several certificates and now even helps others with what she has learned. That's what we do it for: to make people stronger and enable them to also mean something to someone else."

How does Quiet look to the future?

"Technology and education are going to play an increasing role in empowering people," says Tessa. "Online platforms like SkillsTown make that possible, but we need to make sure everyone can participate, including people who are less digitally savvy."

"Our mission remains unchanged: to support people in poverty in ways that help them move forward. We do that by creating small opportunities that make a big difference, today and in the future."