Developing digital skills to earn money online

Rohan, who was 17 years old, was sitting at the dining table and scrolling through his phone. He sighed as he looked at his empty wallet. He couldn't go with his friends on a trip next month because he didn't have enough money. His mother was aware of his annoyance. "What's the matter, Rohan?" He acknowledged, "I need money, but I don't want to keep asking you and Dad for it." I just wish I could earn money on my own. His older cousin, Ayesha, who had just graduated college, smiled. “There is a way,” she said. “Why don’t you learn some digital skills? You can work online and earn from home.”

Rohan looked interested. “Digital skills? Like, exactly? Ayesha cracked open her laptop. There are numerous choices! Let me show you.”

Lesson 1: Understanding the Digital Economy

Ayesha explained, “The internet has made it possible to earn money without a traditional job. People use digital skills to work remotely, sell services, or even start businesses.”

Rohan listened carefully. But is a degree required for this? Ayesha shook her head. “Nope. Skills and experience are all that are required for many online jobs, not formal degrees. Within a few months, you can begin earning if you are willing to learn. She listed a few digital skills in high demand:

Freelancing: Writing, graphic design, video editing, or coding

Creative Skills: Digital art, photography, animation

Tech Skills: Data entry, virtual assistance, social media management

E-commerce: Selling products on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon

Rohan’s eyes widened. “Wow! Where do I begin? Lesson 2: Selecting a skill and putting it into practice Ayesha inquired, "What do you like to do?" Rohan gave it some thought. “I like editing videos. I always help my friends make Instagram reels.”

“That’s a great skill!” Ayesha said. “Video editing is in high demand because of YouTube, TikTok, and online ads.”

She suggested free tools like CapCut, DaVinci Resolve, and Canva for beginners.

“Start by practicing with your own videos,” she advised. “Then, offer free edits to friends or small businesses to build a portfolio.”

Lesson 3: Finding Online Work

After weeks of practice, Rohan felt confident. “I think I’m ready to start earning,” he told Ayesha.

She showed him platforms like Freelancer, Fiverr, and Upwork for freelance work. “Create a profile and upload your best video edits,” she said. “Start with small projects, even if they don’t pay much. You can charge more as you get experience. Rohan was both exuberant and nervous. “What if no one hires me?”

Ayesha smiled. "Have patience. Every person begins somewhere. Keep improving, and soon, you’ll get clients.”

Lesson 4: Managing Money and Growing Skills

A month later, Rohan had completed his first five video editing gigs. He earned $100 and was thrilled.

“This is amazing!” he told Ayesha. “But how do I make sure I don’t waste my earnings?”

Ayesha explained the 50-30-20 rule:

✔ 50% for needs (saving for future courses or equipment)

✔ 30% for wants (buying fun things or celebrating)

✔ 20% for reinvestment (learning new skills to earn more)

She also encouraged him to take advanced editing courses to improve his skills.

“Never stop learning,” she advised. "The more you get better, the more money you can make." Rohan’s Digital Success

Over the next six months, Rohan built his freelancing business.

He earned over $1,000 editing videos for clients.

He upgraded his laptop to work faster.

He started a channel on YouTube to show how to edit videos. He bought his parents dinner with his own money one evening. His father was impressed. He declared, "You've become independent, Rohan." “I’m proud of you.”

Rohan smiled. “All thanks to digital skills.”

Future Learning digital skills gives students the ability to earn money, develop, and become independent. Anyone, like Rohan, can begin with:

✔ Choosing a skill they enjoy

✔ Practicing and improving

✔ Finding online work

✔ Managing earnings wisely

The first step opens up a world of possibilities on the internet.