Dignity unveils programme to empower marginalized women

Dignity for Children Foundation (Dignity), a local non-governmental organization, has launched a programme to provide marginalized women with valuable sewing skills and training.

The “Women Train Women” programme seeks to empower and equip women in B40 communities, single parents and refugees. The programme participants will learn everything they need about sewing, from basic techniques to advanced skills like pattern-making and alterations.

They will be led by experienced seamstresses who will train the participants to start sewing businesses and become financially self-sufficient.

The idea that women can best support and empower other women is at the heart of the programme. The Women-Train-Women programme provides a platform for women to share their expertise, support and build each other up while fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

According to Natalie Tan, Head of Transformational Enterprise at Dignity, the programme is designed to help women facing multiple employment barriers, including poverty, lack of education and discrimination. 

“We know marginalized women are often the hardest hit by economic downturns and social inequality. By providing them with valuable skills and training, we can help them break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient.” Natalie said.

The programme offers six projects covering making items such as coasters, pouches, backpacks, tote bags, face masks and lanyard straps. A total of six hours is allocated to each project.  

Plans are underway for Phase Two to see the participants undertaking more complex sewing projects.

The Dignity Women-Train-Women programme is funded by giant retailer H&M. The programme has successfully trained 16 women on basic sewing skills through collaboration, allowing them to progress to sewing clothes.

Dignity welcomes and invites volunteers to share their knowledge and expertise via the Women-Train-Women programme. Volunteers are also welcome to support other Transformational Enterprises in baking or cooking.

Interested individuals can contact Dignity directly for more information at (60) 3-4044 1397 or email [email protected].