The Women's Antenna: An experience of community technology construction led by Cabécar women of Costa Rica

The article delves into the experiences of three remarkable women leaders, Mina A., Mina X., and Mina S., within Costa Rica's Cabécar indigenous community in Alto Pacuare. Referred to as "Mina,"these women play integral roles in decision-making despite their remote locations. Their initiation of the Association of Cabécars Women of Alto Pacuare led to impactful ventures, including the establishment of the "Casa de las Mujeres"(House of Women). Nonetheless, they express apprehensions about the potential internet-induced impact on their age-old culture. Participating in a hackathon organized by Sulá Batsú Cooperative, these leaders proposed a platform aimed at preserving ancestral wisdom. Bolstered by institutional backing, they developed a community network merging natural metaphors to bridge the digital divide. This innovative "walkie talkie"style network seeks to fuse Cabécars women's traditional insights with modern technology. The initiative encompasses technical training, infrastructure development, and content creation. Its accomplishments encompass the establishment of a radio network, intranet, and the Okamasuei platform. These tools facilitate communication, knowledge dissemination, and education, fostering connectivity between Cabécars women and younger generations. The project underscores the leaders' commitment to transparency, cultural respect, and women's leadership. Reflecting on lessons learned, the article underscores the importance of adapting to community rhythms, appreciating cultural contexts, and engaging the youth. It concludes that the project's triumph significantly contributes to gender equality and social transformation. Moving forward, the endeavor aims to integrate younger generations and expand knowledge-sharing to encompass other communities. It aspires to shape public policies and advocate for community networks as viable alternatives for digital connectivity, emphasizing the intersection of tradition and innovation.