Fighting Misinformation in Latin America with Puppets

Misinformation is a huge problem, and I see it as an even bigger issue in Latin America, especially on WhatsApp. People there rely on WhatsApp for almost everything. They use it to chat, share memes, and stay connected, but they also end up sharing a lot of misinformation and disinformation.

Older adults are particularly vulnerable. They didn’t grow up with these tools, so they don’t always understand how information reaches them. A lot of them take what they see at face value and pass it along without questioning it. That’s why I started thinking about the best way to reach them.

My idea? Puppets.

This isn’t just a random idea. My grandfather was a puppeteer, and he used puppets and theater to educate rural communities in Michoacán, Mexico. He was really successful, and his work showed how powerful storytelling can be when it’s done in a way people connect with. I want to continue that tradition in my own way.

I just made my first attempt at a puppet video (in Spanish). Hopefully, it’s a step toward making a real impact.