Deaf hearing message of hope at Apec expo

By PHOEBE GWANGILO
TWO deaf mothers believe what they learnt in the Apec Policy Partnership on Women and Economy for Southern Region Workshop and Expo will enable them to use their skills in small businesses.
Maggie Ali and Josephine Barnabas attended as executives of the National Capital District Deaf Association and were assisted by the Department of Community Development programme coordinator for sign language Hilda Igo yesterday at the Rita Flyn Court in Port Moresby.
The theme was “showcasing businesses that promote our traditional culture with modern culture for economic growth”.
Ali said through the interpreter that she could sew and make handicraft and would like to run a small business.
She said there were others like her who were skilled as well but needed some help to start a small business.
Igo told The National that four deaf women would join Ali and Barnabas today to show their products.
“The expo will expose them and enable them to build network with others in the SME sector,” Igo said.
“After the expo, they will attend the Ginigoada programme for other life skills training.
“We want to empower the deaf youths and those married through the Ginigoada training programme and after that they can start their small businesses.”