Visually impaired entrepreneurs gain business skills

Twenty-eight visually impaired Guyanese from five regions received training in business management on Wednesday, as part of an initiative aimed at improving financial independence among persons with disabilities.

The one-day workshop, held at the National Library Conference Room in Georgetown, focused on equipping participants with essential skills in business planning, budgeting, and development. Organised by the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), the event targeted visually impaired individuals interested in starting or expanding small businesses.

Celeste Moore, a participant with aspirations to launch a poultry and feed shop, said the training significantly boosted her confidence. “I’ve learnt a lot, especially about how I can control a business and what I can become despite my disability,” she told Ignite News.

Another attendee, Andre Abrahams, plans to produce homemade goods for Guyana’s interior market. “Despite my challenges, I know I can make my business a reality and successful,” said Abrahams, who credits the Guyana Blind Society for empowering him.

Hazel Sears, a long-time beverage retailer, welcomed the opportunity to refine her budgeting and planning strategies. “We as people living with disabilities have our own responsibilities,” she said, adding, “That is why we get up, get going, and fight for our own.”

The workshop was held in partnership with the Small Business Bureau and supported by ExxonMobil Guyana under its orientation and mobility programme. GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to support economic independence for persons who are visually impaired.

As part of its commitment, the government is offering interest-free loans of up to GYD 500,000 over four years through the Small Business Bureau to persons living with disabilities.