A number of women from ‘C’ Field Sophia are now closer to establishing businesses in the area of garment construction, after being awarded sewing machines.
The sewing machines were handed over to the women at the ‘C’ Field Sophia Community Centre by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, following their successful completion of the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) garment construction course.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security noted that, in recognising the pivotal role of skill-based initiatives in sustainable community development, this provision aims to bolster local economic activity by empowering the women to leverage their newly acquired skills for income generation and self-sufficiency.
Himwattie Kishun, a beneficiary of the garment construction course offered by the WIIN programme initiative conducted through the ministry, expressed her gratitude during the simple handover ceremony hosted at the community centre.
“I am very happy to join this programme and I’m glad that all the young people could take part, and I wish it come more every year,” she said.
In response, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindyha Persaud, assured that this will be a continuous initiative, specifically designed and tailored to meet the needs of the women.
“Well now you have your own sewing hubs, it’s going to be here all year-round. It’s not something that’s only going to be a couple times a year, it’s going to be every day, all day–run by you women of Sophia,” she noted.
Additionally, Tiffany Gennis of Wonder Beauty Salon expressed gratitude for the skills she acquired.
“I also take part in this sewing programme and I come out great because I’m doing my own lil small business now. So, I must convey gratitude to the WIIN programme and also give you a special ‘thank you,’” she told the minister.
Gennis also conveyed her appreciation for being able to participate in the WE LIFT Women’s Expo, which was held last weekend at the National Aquatic Centre.
The expo, which is considered the largest women’s expo initiative in the region, provided exposure as well as economic and social empowerment to over 350 women-owned businesses.
The WIIN programme continues to transform the lives of thousands of women across the regions of Guyana, through its impactful hybrid training format. It continues to yield entrepreneurs, women-owned businesses and empowered women who are knowledgeable in various technical and vocational areas, in addition to increasing their chances of gaining meaningful employment.
