The Tribune

THE Zonta Club of New Providence (ZCNP) is furthering the empowerment of women through its’ second annual Workforce Readiness Programme, where unemployed women will receive job training will culminate with two participants receiving college scholarships.

The skills-based workshop officially started yesterday at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), with Minister of Social Services and Community Development Melanie Griffin opening the programme.

The selected participants will be exposed to a blended style of learning and will include formal presentations by industry experts, practicum and on the job training.

“This workforce programme is life skills centered and designed to prepare unemployed women for the competitive world of work, so we want to equip and empower women with specific skills training that will positively influence and improve their overall economic status,” said Marisa Mason-Smith, president of the Zonta Club. “The workshop will focus on the need for self-discovery and the importance and value in managing a successful career.”

Each participant will be assigned a ZCNP mentor who will support and encourage them. Some of the topics that will be covered during the programme are: spirituality, entrepreneurship, leadership, work ethic and protocols, customer service training, conflict resolution, communication styles, resume writing, interviewing skills, dressing for success, office etiquette and decorum, social graces, legal issues and budget and financial planning.

In addition to the professional development training, the participants will be given an opportunity to be introduced to a two-week training in Microsoft Office, facilitated by BTVI.

“At the end of the training we expect that participants will be able to take responsibility for their future and use the skills learnt to make them competitive in the workforce,” said Mrs Mason-Smith.

At the end of the training programme, the successful candidates will receive a certificate of completion from BTVI during the closing ceremonies. Additionally, two scholarships will be given to the outstanding students to pursue tertiary studies.

The Zonta Club is dedicated to improving the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women at the global and local level through service and advocacy. Zonta was founded in 1919 and is an international organisation of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zontians all over the world volunteer their time, talents and support to local and international service projects, as well as scholarship programmes aimed at fulfilling Zonta’s mission and objectives.