Bibi Shaneeza Salem is learning how to build more than furniture.
The single mother is putting her newly acquired carpentry skills to work on her own home, a practical benefit she says could help her manage the rising cost of construction.
Salem is one of two graduates of the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (W.I.I.N.) programme who have completed carpentry training through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, in collaboration with Nations Incorporated.
For her, the training has meant being able to contribute directly to the construction of her house while reducing her reliance on skilled workers for some tasks.
For Coreen Thomas, the same training could open a different door.
A mother of three, Thomas is preparing to enter the workforce with a trade she can use to pursue employment and improve the financial opportunities available to her family.
She said gaining a practical skill is important as she prepares to take the next step in her working life.
Both women are now pursuing internationally accredited City & Guilds certification, which could further strengthen their qualifications as they seek opportunities in the construction industry.
