A GROUP of women in Savusavu have an opportunity to improve their livelihood through developing sewing skills and starting their own tailoring business.
The group received two sewing machines from Courts Fiji Limited in partnership with the Ministry of Women.
The machines worth $918 will assist women of the Nakama Assemblies of God Church to work with the ministry in starting their sewing skills training next week.
Company marketing director Anil Senewiratne confirmed in a statement they handed over two machines to the group this week.
"We are happy to support the Minister for Women, Dr Jiko Luveni's endeavours to reach out to women and empowering them to walk out of poverty," Mr Senewiratne said.
"After the training, the women can either form groups or individually get their own sewing machines from Courts with discounts. This is a worthy cause to give something back to the society."
Ministry media liaison officer Anshoo Chandra said similar opportunities would be provided to women's groups in Sigatoka, Ra and Tailevu.
"Sewing machines have become a life-changing tool for women as it helps them to develop their sewing skills and elevate their economic status," Ms Chandra said.
"As per the ministry's strategic plan for this program, we will provide the training and help women start their income generating projects into better and broader sewing market."
Church pastor Reverend Vasu Lakhan said the program would motivate single mothers and unemployed women to become financially independent.