51 survivors of domestic violence graduate from entrepreneurship course

Fifty-one survivors of domestic and gender-based violence have graduated from the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network’s (WIIN) Entrepreneurship Certificate Course, marking a milestone in their efforts toward independence and empowerment.

The women, who were supported through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU), received their certificates during a ceremony held on Tuesday at the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute (GWLI).

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, commended the graduates for their resilience and determination, describing their achievement as a “personal transformation in the face of adversity.”

“You have already grown. You’ve already surpassed many of the things and people who told you, time and time again, that you couldn’t do. This journey was you doing it for you, in spite of fear, struggles, and sacrifice, and you should be immensely proud,” Minister Persaud told the empowered women.

She announced that all 51 graduates will receive assistance to start their entrepreneurial ventures, including continued support with business registration, mentorship, and access to WIIN’s online business development tools.

Minister Persaud also urged the women to join the Community Advocacy Network, a national movement designed to empower survivors to support others still experiencing abuse.

“We are going to start a powerful movement today, a support and advocacy network. A movement where you are going to speak to those women out there and tell them what you went through. Don’t be afraid, use your voice because it is who you are and where you were. And it will help other women just like you, to take a courageous step,” she said.

The minister also outlined future opportunities for the graduates to engage in the ministry’s care economy initiative, which provides training and support to establish licensed childcare and eldercare facilities in communities.

“You must have the want, the will, the hunger and the desire to do it. So, take these opportunities that are coming to you and make them work for you. You won’t be working only for yourself; you will be providing employment for other persons as well,” Minister Persaud said.

She reminded the women that every step forward, regardless of its size, represents progress and personal victory.

Since its inception, the WIIN programme has trained and empowered more than 19,000 women across Guyana, providing skills development, entrepreneurship training, and financial literacy support to promote sustainable livelihoods.

A graduate receives her certificate from Minister Persaud (Credit: MHSSS)