In a world where economic independence is often the key to a brighter future, DAREM NGO, in partnership with AYEDA NGO and Community Emerge NGO, recently concluded a three-day training program aimed at equipping interns with crucial skills for economic empowerment. This initiative, held over the course of three days, provided participants with hands-on training in making sofa chairs from old car tires, creating picture portrait designs, and crafting fascinators a comprehensive blend of creativity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
The Importance of Skills Training for Economic Empowerment
The training program was not just an educational exercise but a vital step towards addressing the issue of youth unemployment and economic vulnerability. In today’s fast-paced economy, traditional education alone is no longer sufficient to guarantee economic security. This training aimed to fill that gap by offering practical skills that can be immediately translated into income-generating activities.
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“Empowering young people with these skills is a cornerstone of sustainable development. It’s about giving them the tools to create their own opportunities,” says Zainab Abdullahi, Program Coordinator at DAREM NGO. Thus, “By learning how to repurpose materials like old tires into functional furniture, these interns are not only developing a valuable craft but also contributing to environmental sustainability.”
The choice of training modules sofa chair making, portrait design, and fascinator crafting was deliberate. Each of these skills is marketable, allowing the interns to tap into various industries, from home decor to fashion, thereby expanding their potential income streams. Furthermore, by focusing on repurposing waste materials, the program also instilled a strong sense of environmental responsibility among the participants.
Challenges Faced During the Training
Like any transformative initiative, this program was not without its challenges. One of the primary difficulties encountered was sourcing enough materials for the training, particularly old tires, which are not always readily available in the required quantities. Despite this, the dedication of the trainers and the resourcefulness of the interns ensured that the materials were used efficiently and effectively.
Another challenge was the initial lack of confidence among some interns, particularly in the more intricate aspects of picture portrait design and fascinator making. However, through persistent encouragement and one-on-one mentorship, the interns gradually gained confidence and began producing impressive work by the end of the training.
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“At first, I was overwhelmed by the idea of creating something from scratch,” shared by Eva Stallone one of DAREM intern. But as we progressed, I realized that with the right guidance and perseverance, I could actually produce something beautiful and valuable.
Overcoming Barriers to Success
The program also highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive community where interns could learn not just from their trainers but also from each other. The collaborative environment encouraged peer learning, with more skilled interns assisting those who were struggling. This peer-to-peer support was instrumental in overcoming the challenges faced during the training.
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“The camaraderie among the interns was inspiring,” Mr, AUREL, a trainer and CEO from AYEDA NGO. It was incredible to see how they lifted each other up, sharing tips and encouragement, which ultimately led to better outcomes for everyone.”
Looking Ahead
As the training concluded, it was clear that the impact of this initiative would extend far beyond the three days. The interns left not only with new skills but also with a renewed sense of purpose and self-belief. Many expressed a desire to start their own businesses, utilizing the skills they had acquired to create economic opportunities for themselves and their communities.
This training is a testament to the power of partnership and the importance of providing young people with the tools they need to succeed. The collaboration between DAREM NGO, AYEDA NGO, and Community Emerge NGO has laid a solid foundation for future initiatives aimed at fostering economic empowerment through skill development.
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“We’re committed to continuing this journey,” concluded Hassana Matryam Abdou. “Our goal is to ensure that every young person we work with has the chance to realize their full potential, and this training is just the beginning.”
CONCLUSION
As we move forward, DAREM NGO, along with its partners, will continue to seek out innovative ways to empower the next generation, one skill at a time.
