WOMEN empowerment does not begin and end with skills training. It is a continuous venture that allows women from all backgrounds to benefit from sessions that help them to grow in their personal and professional lives.
At the same time, it provides them with the tools needed to become financially independent and forge their own paths.
Through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, this is the reality of many Guyanese women.
Subject Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, recently visited the Timehri Women’s Prison, where she spent time listening to the stories and challenges of close to 80 female inmates.
Touched by their various stories, Minister Persaud is now finding ways to bring free skills training to the women through the ministry’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme, giving them an opportunity to learn a skill and prepare for life beyond prison.
Recognising the emotional challenges many of these women face, Minister Persaud also committed to ensuring they receive ongoing counselling and support to help them cope with their circumstances.
Minister Persaud encouraged the women to never give up on themselves, to think positively and to use this time to reflect, grow and prepare for a fresh start.
For her, rehabilitation is about more than serving time. It is about giving these women the support, skills, and confidence they need to rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into society.
