Mentoring Programme for Low-Income Women Artisans

A New Initiative to Empower Women

PETALING JAYA: There are many talented women artisans in the country, who struggle to earn a sustainable income or expand their business. This can be due to a lack of skills or resources, among others.

The Khadijah Artisans Mentoring Programme

The Khadijah Artisans Mentoring Programme aims to change this situation by providing women artisans from the low-income category with the guidance they need to succeed while helping them widen the distribution channels for the products they produce. The seven-month programme is a collaboration between Khadijah International Waqf (L) Foundation (KIWF) and Persatuan Pembangunan Artisans (PPA), an NGO that helps local artisans market their products.

Programme Details

The programme consists of one-to-one sessions with a number of mentors, including Jade Lee, Wan Maimun Wan Abdullah, Dr. Harlina Siraj, Nor Aini Kamaruddin, and Roszie Amir, who have a wealth of experience in construction, medicine, training, and oil and gas. The mentors provide guidance on how to commercialise the products, using a 10-point checklist with questions such as: do the products appeal to the target market? Does it have quality? What should the packaging be like?

Product Showcase

The women artisans have created a range of products, including embroidered, crochet, and eco-print bags, as well as tailored batik pouches and "Bunga Manggar" that can be used as brooches. An elegant eco-print handbag and matching lipstick case make great holiday gifts.

Funding and Waqf

The programme also provides the artisans with a chance to contribute to society as 3% of their sales will be channelled as waqf contributions to KIWF. Waqf is a traditional Islamic concept that refers to the act of dedicating a sum of money or property to be used for specific charitable or religious purposes in perpetuity. The funds will go towards educational programmes for marginalised children and help cover the cost of running the Khadijah Transit Home, which is temporary housing for families whose children undergo medical treatment.

Earning a Sustainable Income

Through the programme, the women have the opportunity to earn a sustainable income – right from the comfort of their own homes. According to PPA, the top artisan takes home about RM7,000 to RM8,000 a month, while others earn between RM1,000 to RM4,000. This is a sustainable income that can help them plan their lives.

Conclusion

The Khadijah Artisans Mentoring Programme is a unique initiative that aims to empower low-income women artisans to earn a sustainable income and contribute to their community. With a strong focus on mentorship, marketing, and funding, this programme has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of these women and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is eligible for the programme? Women artisans from the low-income category who are interested in developing their skills and expanding their business.
• What is the duration of the programme? Seven months.
• What is the purpose of the programme? To provide women artisans with the guidance they need to succeed while helping them widen the distribution channels for their products.
• How can I get involved? Contact Khadijah International Waqf (L) Foundation at 012-423 0442 or email info@khadijahwaqf.org.my.