Tag: visually impaired

Visually impaired entrepreneurs gain business skills

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

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.

Hazel Sears

Hazel Sears

Celeste Moore

Celeste Moore

Over 30 visually impaired persons to receive business training

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Over 30 visually impaired individuals will benefit from training in entrepreneurship and small business management through the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), in partnership with ExxonMobil Guyana.

The session will be held tomorrow at the National Library, Church Street, Georgetown.

GCOPD Programme Manager, Ganesh Singh, told Ignite News today that some of the participants are already established business owners involved in agro-processing and other ventures, while others are interested in learning how to develop business plans, access finance, and engage in other key business development activities.

Singh explained that the one-day workshop forms part of the GCOPD and ExxonMobil’s Orientation and Mobility Programme for persons who are visually impaired.

He noted that the entrepreneurship workshop will expose beneficiaries to training in budgeting, maintaining financial records, marketing, and other aspects of managing a small business.

“The trainees are all persons who are visually impaired and are either entrepreneurs or plan to venture into small business. The participants will be from Regions Two, Three, Four, Six, and Ten,” Singh said.

Speakers at the event will include ExxonMobil Waste Management Lead, Chricell Whitney, and Small Business Bureau Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Simon Pollard.

Singh highlighted the crucial role of the Small Business Bureau, noting their special programme that supports persons with disabilities in accessing finance and business development assistance.

He added that the launch of the Orientation and Mobility Programme has made a significant impact on the lives of persons with visual impairments. Approximately 700 visually impaired individuals have been taught independent living skills, including how to use the white cane, as a result of the initiative.

The Programme Manager reaffirmed that GCOPD remains committed to supporting these individuals with life and development skills to help them pursue fulfilling lives and meaningful careers.