Belize Women Celebrate Completion of Animation Bootcamp

Belizean women are stepping into new career opportunities after completing the Animation Bootcamp for Women Empowerment, a program designed to equip them with essential digital skills in animation and graphic design. This initiative is providing the tools needed for success in the expanding global market.

The bootcamp, which reached Corozal, Belize City, and Orange Walk, taught women and girls how to create original animated content that they can copyright and share online. A total of 76 women were awarded certificates during the closing ceremony, with the event concluding by recognising the top three participants for their outstanding work in animation.

After five months of training, the graduates are now ready to contribute to industries like film, gaming, and marketing, playing a key role in the growing “orange economy.” This sector, part of the global creative industry, contributes 3-6% to the world’s GDP.

The Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Lily Li-Wen Hsu, congratulated the participants and welcomed them to the digital world. “Use this new tool to tell stories… and transform your creative ideas and content in the ever-changing digital world.”

First place winner, Sogelyn Cabrera, called the bootcamp “a wonderful experience.” Third place winner, Pricilla Acosta, added that despite challenges along the way, she unlocked the creative side in her.

At the launch of the workshop in Orange Walk in August 2024, Prime Minister John Briceño stated that the animation industry could offer flexible job opportunities, especially for women unable to leave home due to caregiving responsibilities.

The program was led by the Ministry of Investment’s Investment Policy & Compliance Unit, the Taiwan Technical Mission, the National Women’s Commission, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.