Leading the way for El Salvador’s digital future

Based in San Salvador, Valeria Zavaleta is a digital artist who brings imaginary worlds to life. She uses a combination of 3D design, animation, and artificial intelligence to build digital experiences, and in doing so, she is opening doors for other young Salvadorans to follow in her footsteps. Many young people in El Salvador face challenges to access work. According to the International Labour Organization, over 23% of young people in El Salvador are currently not in education, employment, or training. Digital skills and access to technology has also held young people back. But that is changing, thanks to growing access to technology, connectivity and new opportunities. Through initiatives like the Ilamatepec Project, the European Union is partnering with local organizations to invest in digital inclusion, education, and youth job creation across El Salvador. The project is part of the European Union’s broader Global Gateway strategy, which aims to build strong, win-win partnerships with countries around the world. In El Salvador, that means helping young people with the skills and mentorship needed to compete in a global digital economy. For Valeria, these efforts helped unlock new opportunities to share her work internationally and mentor the next generation of artists in her community. She’s part of a growing movement of young Salvadorans who are transforming their futures through technology and art. With the European Union’s support, that movement is gaining momentum.