Women in Southeast Asia Leverage AI and Tech Skills for New Career Opportunities

Women across Southeast Asia are finding new career opportunities through AI and technology skills, according to Microsoft. Microsoft's digital and AI skilling programs are playing a pivotal role in empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to thrive in the digital economy.

Empowering Through Education

One notable success story is that of Jidapa Nitiwirakun, a 21-year-old from Thailand who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at a young age. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Nitiwirakun has successfully secured a position in the human resources department of Toyota Tsusho's Thai headquarters. This achievement was largely facilitated by her participation in Microsoft's Skills for Jobs program, which provides essential digital skills training.

Nitiwirakun's journey began at the Pattaya Redemptorist Technological College for People with Disabilities, where she learned a range of digital skills including coding, PowerPoint, and AI. Her internship with Microsoft Thailand further boosted her confidence and skill set, enabling her to train employees and clients in the use of Power BI.

Real-World Applications of AI

In her current role at Toyota Tsusho, Nitiwirakun is involved in projects that utilize AI tools to enhance efficiency and productivity. She is working on a project to track the company's carbon footprint using Power BI and also contributes to internal communications through graphic design. She leverages Dall-E from OpenAI to generate images, and uses AI tools to assist with formulas for analytics and to summarize information during web searches.

Nitiwirakun's story is a testament to the transformative power of digital and AI skills. She continues to volunteer at her old college, supporting her family financially and inspiring others with disabilities to pursue their dreams.

Broader Impact

Microsoft's initiatives are not limited to Thailand. Across Southeast Asia, many women are benefiting from similar programs, gaining the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving job market. By focusing on digital literacy and AI capabilities, these programs are fostering a more inclusive economy and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the importance of such skilling programs cannot be overstated. They provide the tools and knowledge necessary for individuals to adapt and succeed, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.

For more details, visit the official source at Source Asia.