Coding Girls in Mozambique: cultural exchanges between young women in Italy and Mozambique.
The days leading up to the Christmas holidays are always full of events and opportunities. Among these, two exciting online meetings took place on December 6 and 10 between Italian university students and coaches, along with forty young Mozambican women. A unique opportunity to break down geographical and cultural barriers, encouraging dialogue and sharing between young women from different backgrounds.
Many topics were addressed: robotics, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, as well as traditions and personal stories. The first meeting, which involved twenty students from the Province of Sofala, began with an introductory activity to get acquainted. Sometimes, the best way to tell a story is through an object, and this simple activity allowed participants to get to know each other and share profound aspects of their lives. Behind common objects, such as Sonia's capulana, a symbol of Mozambique, Rebeca Josè's ring, a family emblem, or the basketball of Coach Giulia, lurk stories of resilience, dreams and ties with tradition.
The core of the meeting was the “Mozambique Express,” an activity that was particularly appreciated by the participants. Divided into groups, the Mozambican students guided the Italians on a two-day virtual journey, describing the beauties of their country, its typical dishes, and its cultural traditions. An experience that stimulated curiosity, questions, and the desire to explore, pointing to how cultural heritage can become a bridge between people of different nationalities.
The second virtual exchange, which took place on Tuesday, December 10 with students from the Province of Nampula, addressed the daily challenges of young Mozambican women, such as limited access to education, management of natural resources, and the lack of technological infrastructure. In this context, the potential role of artificial intelligence to tackle these issues was discussed. Led by young Artificial Intelligence graduate Elisa Chierchiello, the Italian coaches and the Mozambican students explored the main advantages of AI and imagined how technology - and this technology, in particular - could represent a concrete resource for their country too, without overlooking the importance of integrating technical skills with a deep understanding of local needs.
Both meetings ended with a collective reflection during which participants shared the emotions and insight resulting from the experience: “dialogue”, “inspiration”, “growth”, “discovery” and “connection” were the most used words, emphasising the transformative value of these intercultural experiences. Dialogue is always a powerful tool for female empowerment, helping to underline the importance of acting together for a more equitable and inclusive future.
The next session will be held after the Christmas break. So, Merry Christmas to all, even in Mozambique!
Report by Elisabetta Gramatica, Project Officer
