YEA initiates ‘Make Fashion Inclusive’ to empower PWDs through skills training

The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has launched a training hub in Kumasi. This initiative aims to empower Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) through skills training. The focus is on sustainable employment in the fashion industry.

The program, called “Make Fashion Inclusive,” promotes dignity and economic independence for disabled individuals in Ghana. It partners with the “Invest for Jobs” initiative from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

This program will train 100 individuals with disabilities in fashion design, embroidery, beading, and millinery. Malik Basintale, CEO of YEA, stated that this hub opens doors to independence and creativity.

He emphasized that inclusion is about justice, not charity. Many people are excluded from jobs due to their disabilities.

Mr. Basintale highlighted the importance of skills-based training today. Many employers now value practical skills alongside formal qualifications. He noted that skills are portable and essential for job seekers.

He assured that more hubs will open across Ghana to expand this initiative's reach. Elizabeth Emmanuella Nimoh, National Secretary of the association of physically disabled individuals, praised the program's impact on street-dwelling PWDs.

She mentioned that training helps many escape difficult situations and reliance on begging. She expressed excitement about seeing people learn life-changing skills.

However, she raised concerns about transportation costs for wheelchair users and others traveling from far away. She suggested providing accommodation and meals to help participants focus on their training.

“Transport costs are beyond our means,” she said. “Accommodation and meals would greatly help.”

In response, Mr. Basintale acknowledged these concerns as potential challenges rather than setbacks. He explained that they have not yet paid any incentives but are looking into solutions over time.

He reiterated the Agency's commitment to support tools that enable individuals to build businesses and impact their communities positively.

John Duti, Team Leader for GIZ, stressed their commitment to creating decent jobs with private sector partnerships for disabled individuals.

“This is serious work,” he said. “We aim to ensure no one is left behind.” He confirmed this program is part of GIZ’s efforts to make employment accessible and inclusive.