THE Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) made a significant contribution to the local business community on Wednesday by presenting a sewing machine to Ashinee Abrams, an Indigenous entrepreneur with a disability.
The donation aims to support the expansion of Ashinee’s small business, Ashinee’s Authentic Product, and enhance her financial independence.

Ashinee, who has been running her business for approximately five years from Public Road Lot 23, Good Hope East Bank Essequibo, expressed her gratitude for the support.
Her business specialises in indigenous crafts, bottled products like pure coconut oil and cassareep, and offers delivery services on Saturdays. With the new sewing machine, Ashinee plans to diversify her offerings to include garments with indigenous designs and school uniforms.

“This sewing machine will be a tremendous asset to me,” Ashinee remarked. “It will assist me in sewing the bag lining for my knitted crafts, as well as help me create pillowcases, table coverings, and food coverings. I also look forward to expanding into clothing design.”
The presentation was made by Cecil Morris, Chairman of the GCOPD, who expressed pride in supporting Ashinee’s entrepreneurial journey. “We’re very proud to help you in this process,” Morris said. “Our goal is to encourage more Indigenous community members to seize opportunities like this and enhance their comfort and independence.”

The GCOPD has a long history of empowering individuals with disabilities through various skills training programmes and partnerships with agencies such as the Small Business Bureau.
According to Ganesh Singh, Programme Manager of the GCOPD, the organisation has seen high success rates among those who have received training and support. “Small business is a key area where persons with disabilities can achieve financial independence,” Singh noted.
Since its establishment in January 2009, and its official registration under the Friendly Societies Act on September 15 of the same year, the GCOPD has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Guyana. The organisation works closely with the National Commission on Disability (NCD) and other stakeholders to promote a positive cultural shift and implement projects that benefit the disability community. With a membership of 24 Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) from various regions, the GCOPD continues to be a vital force in advancing the rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities across the nation.