Empowering PWDs Through Skills and Livelihood

By: Rhoderick Co

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The Rotary Club of Katipunan held a Three-Day Sewing and Craft Upskilling Program on September 18 to 20, 2026 at theBarangay Gulod PWD sewing Center in Novaliches, Quezon City. The program aims to strengthen the livelihood skills and empower Persons with Disability or PWD together with their families. Providing practical, market-relevant skills promote confidence, dignity, and independence thereby creating opportunities for more income. The initiative is built on the club’s continuing PWD Empowerment Program, sustained in partnership with the community since 2017.

Working with PWD participants, family members, center leaders, local partners, and a training facilitator, the club identified skill gaps affecting existing sewing, craft, and small-enterprise activities. The three-day program combined focused lectures with hands-on training in updated materials, designs, techniques, and machinery. Participants practiced creating useful, saleable products while receiving guidance tailored to their current ventures and market needs. Feedback and observation throughout the sessions allowed facilitators to refine activities and keep the training inclusive, practical, and responsive.

The program’s impact extends beyond the training period. Participants can apply their improved skills to strengthen household income and adapt their products to changing customer demand. Peer mentoring at the sewing center will help share knowledge with other members, while continued links with Rotary, local government, suppliers, trainers, and potential buyers will support access to materials, technical advice, and markets. Income from product sales can replenish supplies and maintain equipment. Through partnership, inclusion, and sustainable livelihood development, the project reflects Rotary International’s theme, Create Lasting Impact—turning skills into opportunity and community action into enduring change.