In the Olaya Herrera neighborhood of Medellín, Colombia, there’s a humble internet cafe run by the San Basilio parish. Basilnet has become more than just a place to get online; it is also a hub for opportunity, connection, and learning.
At Basilnet, students can complete their homework, research school projects, and access online resources they otherwise could not have. Adults and seniors can come to apply for jobs, complete official paperwork, and gain valuable digital skills. For many in this community, Basilnet is their first reliable access to the online world — bridging the digital divide by making information available at their fingertips.
The responsible use of technology is vital to the mission of Basilnet. Digital literacy programs hosted at the internet cafe teach attendees internet safety and how to search for reliable information. These programs strengthen the sense of community within the San Basilio parish and promote collective growth as users develop their skills alongside each other.
Access to information empowers people to reshape their lives through pursuing education, job opportunities, and by participating more fully in their society. Curiosity has flourished at Basilnet, and neighbors have come together to create a more connected, hopeful future.
Every purchase of Saint Basil coffee and donation keeps Basilnet’s doors open — ensuring that the residents of Olaya Herrera can continue to learn, grow, and thrive in our increasingly digital world.