Over 30 visually impaired individuals will benefit from training in entrepreneurship and small business management through the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), in partnership with ExxonMobil Guyana.
The session will be held tomorrow at the National Library, Church Street, Georgetown.
GCOPD Programme Manager, Ganesh Singh, told Ignite News today that some of the participants are already established business owners involved in agro-processing and other ventures, while others are interested in learning how to develop business plans, access finance, and engage in other key business development activities.
Singh explained that the one-day workshop forms part of the GCOPD and ExxonMobil’s Orientation and Mobility Programme for persons who are visually impaired.
He noted that the entrepreneurship workshop will expose beneficiaries to training in budgeting, maintaining financial records, marketing, and other aspects of managing a small business.
“The trainees are all persons who are visually impaired and are either entrepreneurs or plan to venture into small business. The participants will be from Regions Two, Three, Four, Six, and Ten,” Singh said.
Speakers at the event will include ExxonMobil Waste Management Lead, Chricell Whitney, and Small Business Bureau Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Simon Pollard.
Singh highlighted the crucial role of the Small Business Bureau, noting their special programme that supports persons with disabilities in accessing finance and business development assistance.
He added that the launch of the Orientation and Mobility Programme has made a significant impact on the lives of persons with visual impairments. Approximately 700 visually impaired individuals have been taught independent living skills, including how to use the white cane, as a result of the initiative.
The Programme Manager reaffirmed that GCOPD remains committed to supporting these individuals with life and development skills to help them pursue fulfilling lives and meaningful careers.
