Crossing the Digital Divide: Kulthum's Story
Unable to contact her loved ones, Kulthum visited National Digital Inclusion Network member Learn for Life and received data from the National Databank.
Disconnected in times of need
Before Kulthum received her SIM card from the National Databank, she felt "miserable and confused."
With no access to the news and unable to talk to her loved ones, Kulthum was disconnected from the online world.
"...I felt I was outside of the world as nowadays technology is everywhere, and I could not access the news or talk to people. I was disconnected from my family and not very happy as I couldn’t speak to them whenever I wanted to or needed to."
Kulthum
Being new to Sheffield with no access to WiFi and the added worry of not being able to get in touch with her family back home was a "hard time" for Kulthum.
She started buying data herself, but found it to be "very expensive" and with the little money she had, it began to affect her mental wellbeing.
Thankfully, Kulthum was introduced to National Digital Inclusion Network member Learn for Life and received free data.
"When I received my SIM card I was so excited and happy. I was so excited about it. With the little money I had I could now buy things. Before I was limited and prioritising the internet over things like food and clothes. So, receiving the SIM card meant I could start looking after myself better and put that particular worry aside as I was now sorted."
Kulthum
Using data to learn new things
Now Kulthum has internet access, she can stay up to date with what's happening back home and do the things she loves.
"...Knowing that whenever I wake up in the morning I can now check the news and see what’s happening back home, it makes me happy...I love listening to podcasts and learning new things and learning from other people’s experiences. I am now so entertained at home, I listen to music, I dance in my room and it’s a huge thing for me."
Kulthum
No longer turning off data
She added:
"...Back in Tanzania data is so expensive, so you have to limit yourself. I was having to do the same here. Now I can check my social media all the time. I really love it, I no longer have to turn off my data."
Kulthum
