We are a leading advocacy organization for the social inclusion of LGBTQI refugees in South Africa, we conducted a scalable and sustainable skills development training program from November 2021 to February 2022, focused on imparting valuable skills to 16 trans and gender-diverse refugees.
The training program was designed to equip participants with practical skills in catering, CMT- Sewing (Cut Make Trim), Graphic Design, and Marketing/ Advertising. Each skill had four participants, ensuring that the training was personalized and hands-on. The program aimed to provide participants with the necessary tools to succeed in the job market and to start their own businesses.
The training was conducted in a supportive and inclusive environment, which allowed participants to gain confidence and develop their skills. The training program included both theoretical and practical components, ensuring that participants were equipped with both knowledge and practical experience. The program also included mentorship and coaching, which helped participants to develop their confidence and skills further.
At the end of the program, some participants were given money to start their own businesses. This was a significant achievement for the participants and a testament to the success of the program. The funding allowed participants to launch their businesses, create employment opportunities, and become self-sufficient.
The Fruit Basket’s scalable and sustainable skills development training program is an excellent example of how organizations can support LGBTQI+ refugees to become self-sufficient and thrive in their new communities. The program’s success highlights the importance of providing refugees with the necessary skills and resources to succeed in their new environments.
In conclusion, this skills development training pilot program is a model for how organizations can support marginalized communities to become self-sufficient and thrive. The program’s impact on the lives of the 16 trans and gender-diverse refugees who participated is immeasurable, and it serves as a testament to the power of inclusive and sustainable training programs.