Women Migrant Returnees livelihood training

This report covers DAWN's livelihood trainings on sewing and hand-loom weaving to forty (40) Filipino women migrant returnees from October to December 2021.

The project aims to provide skills training in Industrial High Speed and Special Machines Operations, Basic sewing, pattern-making and cutting and Basic and Advanced hand-loom weaving to women migrant returnees, survivors of Gender-based Violence and Trafficking and members of their families. The project serves as therapy, learning of new skills and source of economic opportunities. Through the trainings, the women are able to apply their creativity, learn new skills, meet new friends and create safe space of sharing life experiences and support system. The project is not only for economic empowerment but also the power of women empowering other women by sharing their skills to other women thus- boosting their self-esteem and confidence.

In spite of the lockdowns, trainings pushed through.  All health protocols were observed by the trainees, trainers and DAWN staff.

Here are some feebacks from the trainees:

“I’m happy to do the training on weaving, during the COVID- 19 Pandemic. I made coasters and placemats. I also would like to help sell these items by posting in my social media account to be able to help in marketing them and have additional income. Thank you, DAWN-Sikhay and Tita Luz.” – Celia

“I can’t believe that I was able to sew various items, because I have no experience at all. I feel nervous every time I’m in front of the machine. Thank God for the help! Every day of my training, I feel happy and proud of myself. Thank you to my kind trainer, Gilda, and to DAWN.” – Esther

“Weaving is fulfilling. It relieves stress and depression, and I also learn new skills which I thought I would never accomplish. Thank you DAWN and Tita Luz." – Joy

"I'm glad that I learned to sew. It's my first time to use a high-speed sewing machine, but my trainer, Tita Gilda, was very patient in training and she emphasized the importance of being focused in whatever I'm doing to ensure the quality of my work. Thank you DAWN and Tita Gilda." – Theresa

Based on these positive feedbacks from our trainees, we will continue to train more women migrant returnees, survivors of Gender-based violence and trafficking in the next few months.

Thank you very much for your continuing support!