The Tribune

THE Zonta Club of New Providence recently wrapped up its 5th Workforce Readiness Programme, furthering the empowerment of women through scholarships and certifications awarded to several of the 18 participants in this year's three-week skills training workshop.

The programme kicked off July 2 at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute, with the selected participants exposed to a blended style of learning, including formal presentations by industry experts and on the job training.

"It's amazing how these several weeks can change the attitudes and outlook for these women who come through our programme," said Kayla Darville, president of the ZCNP. "Our workforce training is life skills centered and designed to prepare unemployed women for the competitive world of work which we hope will improve their overall economic status.

"Throughout this programme's five-year history we have seen the merits of helping the ladies become more self aware and confident in their God given talents and abilities."

At the closing on July 23, Patricia Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, pledged her support as well as the support of the newly formed Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister to the programme and to the empowerment of women in the Bahamas.

"You must think big. Not just where you are now. I never thought I would be in this position," she said, pointing to her upbringing in the Coconut Grove neighbourhood. "Through education and somebody moving me along the way, through prayer and believing in myself I am where I am today. Block the number of haters and surround yourself with positive people and form a ground swell around you of people who believe in you and most importantly find yourself prayer warriors who will pray with you and for you."

Throughout the course, the participants were mentored in 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 (knowing your rights), budget and financial planning.

The participants were also given an opportunity to train in Microsoft Office Suite, facilitated by BTVI. At the end of the training programme, the successful candidates received a certificate of completion from BTVI during the closing ceremony.

"BTVI's main mission is to make people, men and women, workforce ready in the Bahamas," said BTVI President Dr Robert Robertson. "I've been a part of this ceremony from three to five years and it's one of the more exciting programmes I look forward to every year. I encourage you to take advantage of all that you have learned and I now declare you workforce ready."

The 2018 scholarship winner Nadia Moss was awarded the two-year scholarship to pursue an associate of arts degree at the Soldier Road institute. Additional scholarships were also awarded to outstanding women who want to pursue studies in specific areas.