An atmosphere of excitement and cheers filled the hall of Arman Hotel during the graduation ceremony of a dressmaking training program for Filipinos. The event, held on 17 May, celebrated the success of 28 graduates who had completed a six-Friday skills training sponsored by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in collaboration with Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN) and the Philippine Embassy. Dinah Sta. Ana, president of Pinay Ikaw Na, expressed gratitude to the Philippine Embassy, OWWA, and Migrant Workers Office (MWO) for their support in making the project possible for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
During the ceremony, Dinah highlighted the accomplishments of the graduates, emphasizing not only their acquisition of technical skills in dressmaking but also their development of valuable abilities such as communication, teamwork, and camaraderie while working in a foreign land. The training program aimed to empower OFWs by providing them with the tools and skills necessary to excel in a different career path beyond traditional roles such as housemaids.
Dr. Amelito S. Adel, OWWA Welfare Officer, delivered an inspirational message during the ceremony, praising the graduates for their dedication and passion in creating unique Filipiniana-inspired gown designs. He commended the participants for their efforts in exploring new career options and aspirations, encouraging them to continue diversifying their paths and seeking opportunities for growth and development.
The training program was conducted under the guidance of skilled mentor Epifania Puyoc and seven assistant teachers, all of whom were graduates of previous dressmaking classes. Together, they patiently assisted the enrollees in honing their skills in pattern making, cutting, textile manipulation, and designing. The program not only equipped the graduates with technical expertise but also fostered a sense of community and support among the participants, creating a strong bond among them as they worked towards a common goal.
The graduation ceremony was a joyous occasion, filled with pride and celebration as the graduates showcased their creations to the audience. The event served as a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and creativity of the participants, highlighting their potential and talent in the field of dressmaking. The success of the training program underscored the importance of providing skill-building opportunities for OFWs to empower them and help them realize their full potential in their chosen careers.
Overall, the dressmaking training program and graduation ceremony was a resounding success, bringing together a community of Filipino workers in Bahrain to celebrate their achievements and inspire one another to continue striving for excellence. Through collaboration and support from organizations such as OWWA, Pinay Ikaw Na, and the Philippine Embassy, Filipino workers were able to access valuable resources and training that will enable them to pursue new opportunities and fulfill their professional aspirations in the future.
