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This has been made possible through an initiative of the Agency for Reconstruction and Development (ARD), with funds from the REGENAID Trust, which was established in London, England following Hurricane Ivan.
As per the request of the Trust, the ARD sought to utilise the funds for educational purposes and collaborated with The Treasure Chest Grenada, the Grenada National Council of the Disabled, the Programme for Adolescent Mothers and the Dorothy Hopkin Centre in developing the project.
Speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the 10-day Seed Jewelry Workshop, ARD Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richardson Andrews expressed appreciation to REGENAID Trust and Grenada’s High Commissioner in the United Kingdom His Excellency Joseph Charter for channeling the funds through the ARD.
Mr. Andrews noted that the ARD has focussed extensively on training and helping people to develop capacities and skills, as part of the Build Back Better objective.
The Workshop was conducted by Ms. Ursula Williams, principal of Treasure Chest Grenada, who teaches from her studios and workshop in Westerhall. Speaking at the Closing Ceremony, Ms. Williams encouraged the participants to apply their skills and “keep working.”
“The flame now is lit. It is up to you,” she said, noting that Grenada is “over-flowing with beautiful things that you can use for anything, not just jewelry.”
This project has captured the imagination of the participants, connected them with farmers who are taking advantage of the opportunity to use seeds from a variety of tree, vines and other plants as an income-earner; and has potential for the gift and craft sector.
Each participant received a start-up kit that included everything from a drill to ear ring hooks, several pliers, needles, clasps, a variety of beads and other items that will enable them to create items for sale.
Speaking after the Ceremony, Ms. Neila Duncan said she plans to work from her home, as does Bernicia Baptist.
Trevor Charles, one of two participants to receive a Certificate of Excellence, said he will work from the White Cane Industries.
Ms. Marjorie Simon, Home Keeper at the Dorothy Hopkin Centre, said the Workshop was most enjoyable and will assist her at the Centre.
“Using hands is a form of therapy for the residents, so I intend to use these skills at the Centre,” she said.
November 16, 2007
Agency for Reconstruction and Development
Botanical Gardens, St. George’s, Grenada
Tel: 473-439-5606;
Fax: 473-439-5609;
Email: mail@ardgrenada.org
Website: www.ardgrenada.org
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