– Capoey resident urges other women to explore entrepreneurship

By Indrawattie Natram

GRACE Edwards is a 42- year-old resident of the Capoey Amerindian Community, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and she believes that independence is important for any woman, and as such she is encouraging others to become entrepreneurs. Edwards is into wood craft and according to her, it provides her with much opportunities and avenues to contribute to her home.

Edwards has dabbled in the craft business for over 26 years and explained that it provides a means of earning for her family. She said that other women should also get into a small business so that they can earn a living for themselves and make contributions to their households as well.

The mother of three makes cricket bats, boat paddles, spoons and other wood-related craft for the local markets. After obtaining lumber, mainly Simarupa from the dense forest, she and her husband Morris Edwards would sit together and craft the items manually with a knife.

The process begins immediately after the lumber is obtained from the forest. It includes carving, sandpapering, then spoke-shaving into the desired craft items. This is done manually either by cutlass or knife without the use of a mould.

On a daily basis, over 10 dozen bats are crafted by the couple. Grace related that she adopted the skill from her husband- something she is thankful for. She said collectively they work to make ends meet for the family and even though her business stems from a strong partnership, she believes that women serving in any form of entrepreneurship can help them to gain a sense of independence.

The making of the items is conducted at the bottom of their home in Capoey. When finished, they would sell their craft to local supermarkets or make house to house sales. Some of their work is usually made based on orders received.

The bats are usually made into different sizes based on orders. Grace said that the business is the only source of income for the family and that it helps to support her children to go school. On a weekly basis she would journey to the coast via boat to sell the items. She stated that sales fluctuate but she remains positive that one day she would expand her business and open her own small shop. Anyone desirous of purchasing the bats or other items can contact Grace on 592651-4042.