A Conversation with Matilde Lemus, Los Angeles Digital Skills Participant 

We recently talked with Matilde Lemus, an EveryoneOn digital skills training participant in Los Angeles, about what prompted her to enroll in the course and how her new skills have changed her life.

Please share a little about yourself - where you’re from, your family and how you spend your time during the day.

I arrived in the U.S. from Michoacan, Mexico when I was 22 years old. That was 31 years ago. I didn’t know anything about the U.S. Coming to another country where you don’t know anyone or anything is a big change.

I have three children who are in their twenties. I spend most of my time at home doing what housewives do - cleaning the house, cooking and running errands like going to the market and finding public resources to support my family.

I completed high school in Mexico. I didn’t learn anything about computers during my studies.

Why did you sign up for the digital skills training?

Everything we do today requires connection to the internet. I enrolled because I thought it was a great idea to learn about tech. Tech is important because everything is technology-based now. For me it was about the resources available on the internet - information I need to access and things I need to do, like pay bills.

I also saw my kids using technology. Sometimes they would help me with the technology and other times they weren’t available. It was important for me to learn for myself so I no longer had to depend on anyone.

What kind of interactions did you have with technology prior to taking the training?  

It could be frustrating not knowing how to use tech. I was using my telephone to connect to the internet, and occasionally would attempt to use my children’s laptops, but I was uncertain about using them and always had to ask for help. For instance, I needed to get a letter mailed out for SNAP benefits so I could feed my family. I typed the letter out, but then had to correct it. I had to pay someone to make the edits for me.  

What surprised you about the training?

How easy it is to use technology! The problem is that when we don’t know how to use it, it seems impossible, but it’s easy.

What was the environment like during the class?

I enjoyed the experience of going through the course with my peers. We were friends outside of the training and supported each other during class. If there was something someone didn’t understand, we would help one another. And the instructor was patient and supportive.

Los Angeles digital skills participants completing an online training course

How do you use your new skills? 

I use my new skills to find resources on health and finances so I can manage my money better. I also keep in touch with people I couldn’t communicate with before, like my nieces and nephews in Mexico. Now I can get updates on their lives - how they are and if there are things they need.

How if at all has the training changed you as a person?

My new knowledge makes me feel good. I’m independent now. I don’t have to wait on someone else to help me. I can do it myself. 

You’re enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program. How has that changed your life?

I appreciate the program because it saves me money. That in itself is a big benefit. Now I have money freed up to pay other bills.

Why do you recommend others enroll in EveryoneOn’s digital skills training? 

These courses make tech accessible. It’s much easier than people think. And the course is free! We usually have to pay for these types of classes. People should take advantage of the opportunity.

Matilde participated in EveryoneOn's digital skills training through Proyecto Pastoral, a community-based organization in Boyle Heights. Funding for the EveryoneOn digital skills training was provided by California Public Utilities Commission.