Foundation shifts focus to empowering women
Voice of the Needy Foundation has inspired a few women to kick-off small businesses. Last year, the non-governmental organisation provided start-ups for 20 plus projects, food packages and also catered to the basic needs of 250 plus children to go to school. Foundation president Mainaz Ali said they identified women in need and empowered them to achieve their potential through training, mentoring and providing for small businesses.
This year the foundation identified 100 women and has plans to provide start-ups for various projects.
“Our goal is to provide the initial amount for small businesses and encourage women to be self-sufficient,” Ms Ali said.
“The foundation encourages women to know their own self-worth, to work on their self-esteem and understand self-concept. Training, counselling and mentoring have a positive impact on women. “We encourage basic bookkeeping as we know that local taxes paid by small businesses end up paying for community improvements such as schools, health care etc.”
She added that small businesses don’t take more space, they use the space that was already there, which is encouraging environmental conservation.
“They carry locally produced products, or products from manufacturers. They are unique and have a more distinct personality,” she added.
NGO have also organised an event called “Empowered Women Empower Women ‘’ which will take place at Bulabard Hotel in Nadi on March, 17.
Ms Ali said the theme is for businesses is to come together in a spirit of mutual co-operation to both support each other and also donate their time and expertise towards a worthy cause.
“This event is an opportunity for local businesses to come together and promote small business while encouraging small businesses to buy local products,” she said.
The event is limited to 160 people; tickets are $100 per person and net profits are expected to go to charity.