Single mother gets boost to kick-start business venture
—Donation possible through the MOSP and Humanitarian Mission Guyana Inc.
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, August 5, 2020.
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Social Protection, through its Gender Affairs Bureau and the Humanitarian Mission Guyana Incorporated, donated a quantity of cosmetology equipment to Shamika Henry, a single mother to launch her business venture
Henry noted that the donation will help her provide for herself and her teenage son.
She said being a single parent comes with challenges but is determined to rise above poverty and use her skills to earn a living. Henry said due to the COVID pandemic she lost her “steady-job”.
“I am going to start my own business even if I have to go house to house to do my work. I provide manicures, pedicures and also hair treatment. Today I received a dryer, foot spa and hair curlers among other necessities to independently do what I love,” Henry remarked happily
Henry disclosed that once the pandemic is over and it is safe, she will be pursuing studies in cosmetology to certify herself to provide quality service to her customers.
The equipment was handed over by Dr. Suresh Sugrim, a representative of the US-based Humanitarian Mission Guyana Incorporated.
“The mission originated in New Jersey, USA and for 15 years we have been working on many projects in Guyana which focus on empowering children by assisting them with funds to school and women who are exposed to violence,” Dr. Sugrim explained.
According to Dr. Sugrim, the organisation also focuses “on small businesses, especially training young adults in skills such as computer knowledge and sewing. As of lately suicide prevention and mental health awareness are also on our agenda.”
Senior Affairs Officer attached to the Gender Affairs Bureau, at the Ministry of Social Protection, Hemwattie Lagan noted that the department aims to provide resources to empower individuals who are in need to transform their lives.