The Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) is a programme launched by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in 2021 with the goal of empowering women and girls to become financially independent. Through this initiative, participants are equipped with skills and training designed to enhance their ability to earn a living.
During an outreach in Region Six, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Hon. Vindhya Persaud, encouraged Berbicians to take advantage of the WIIN programme, which has already trained and certified over 12,000 Guyanese in various skill sets, both online and in person.
She emphasized the ministry’s commitment to providing all Guyanese with opportunities for personal growth and self-sufficiency, stating, “We want to uplift and develop people away from the mindset of solely relying on public assistance. It is there, but it should not be the only thing—it is not the only answer. I know people don’t like to hear this, but I’m saying it because we need to change the mindset, especially among young people.”
Minister Persaud highlighted that the WIIN programme is a “tried and tested” initiative that equips residents with the skills and resources to secure employment using their WIIN certificates. Beyond training, the programme encourages entrepreneurship, offering participants the tools to start their own businesses.
“We train you, and while you’re training, we teach you how to start a business. Let’s say your training lasts for three weeks—by the end of that, you won’t only know how to do plumbing; you’ll also know how to write a business plan. You’ll have it completed before the programme ends,” she explained.
The ministry further supports WIIN graduates by covering the cost of business registration and providing startup kits to help them launch their ventures.
For more information or to register, visit the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Facebook page or call 226-4186.
