APPROXIMATELY 90 residents of Region Two are now certified in essential skills such as Garment Construction, Care for the Elderly, and Entrepreneurship through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s (MHSSS) Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN).

The programme, designed to empower and uplift individuals through practical training, awarded certifications in various levels, enabling participants to contribute to the local economy and enhance their family livelihoods.

The cohort included 26 women from Mainstay trained in garment construction, 25 women from Pomona who completed garment construction (levels 2, 3, and 4) alongside business training, 21 women in Affiance who completed care for the elderly courses with ABMA accreditation, and 18 women from Charity certified in garment construction (levels 2, 3, and 4). This initiative, supported by an investment exceeding $4 million, has focused on meeting the growing demand for skilled workers in these areas across the region.

WIIN’s curriculum is designed to provide free access to life skills training, fostering personal growth, creativity, and financial independence among participants from all regions. Instructors place a strong emphasis on not only technical skills but also on entrepreneurial guidance, equipping graduates with the knowledge and confidence needed to start their own businesses.

Many of the new graduates expressed gratitude for the opportunity, with several sharing their plans to launch their own ventures. The WIIN Business Clinic has given participants a foundation in business planning and development, instilling optimism about their future projects.

The Ministry’s commitment to fostering human resource development through accessible, free training opportunities aims to empower all individuals with a passion for learning and self-improvement. WIIN’s programs cater to anyone ready to innovate, create, and support their families through new skills and entrepreneurial ventures. With continued support from the MHSSS, Region Two’s certified graduates are now poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.