On the very first day of
Ngalita’tae Sistas Savve training, we asked the women what practical skills
they were interested in learning. As a group, they made a big list and selected
a few skills which they suggested were a priority for their community. In the
weeks since, we have brought in different specialists in the afternoon sessions
to show and teach the women these skills.
So far, the women have
learnt to arrange flowers, bake muffins and cakes, dye and print lavalava and make food
covers.
One of my most unforgettable moments at Sistas Savve occurred
during a baking session. Most of the women had never baked a cake before – they
were so eager to learn.
These afternoon sessions are great. The women are
empowered by learning some new skills that they can use in their homes
and communities once they have finished the training. They can also use their
new skills to make some money for their families.