Girls’ safety celebrated in Eldos

Women’s Day celebration coincided with the official launch of Athena’s Beauty Spa in Eldorado Park last week. The initiative is a brainchild of two local women at the forefront of community development, Alicia Solomons and Lucinda Rayners.

It is aimed at empowering local youth with skills in the beauty and business industry. The target is talented young girls from the community who needs a chance to develop themselves in the industry and contribute to the sustainability of the whole community.

“This initiative is about empowering young women in our community who have been denied the opportunity to better themselves,” said Solomons.

“We have various stakeholders who have come on board to work with us in training these girls, help them get certified and help them grow as individuals.”

ALSO READ: Reusable sanitary pads used to celebrate Women’s Day in Davidsonville

The initiative goes beyond skills transfer and empowerment as it also aims to fight poverty and alleviate no income households in the community, according to Solomons. It is a platform for young women to do what they enjoy while earning a living and growing as individuals.

In keeping up with Women’s Day and celebrating the power of femininity, the launch had various women speakers sharing the stage. They spoke to other women about their experiences in business, relationships and every aspect of life.

A common sentiment amongst them all was that women are much stronger united. It is important to fix each other’s crown without pulling each other down.

Local women owned businesses also got a chance to showcase their products and services at the launch event. From jewellery to baking and beauty products, everything was on exhibition for attendees to buy and boost the local economy.

Having local businesses showcase at the launch also served as an inspiration to the young girls who are part of the programme. It is in keeping up with the mandate of Athena’s Beauty Spa which is to educate and empower.

“We will also be running courses on etiquettes, business and teach them how to take these skills and use them in opportunities they never thought exist for them,” explained Solomons.

Athena’s Beauty Spa is more than a place of learning; it is a response to all the social ills young people are facing in the community.

Solomons calls it a safe space for girls to come in and be themselves while not side-lining boys because they also go through challenges of their own.

ALSO READ: Women’s Day celebration with a purpose

She said, “Girls and the youth in general are going through so much and we need to start being there for them because it takes a village to raise a child.”

A sense of community and unity was on full display at the launch event with local businesses making a contribution to its success.

Special thanks went out to Clearview Glass Worx, Fashion Evolution, Fine Designs, Amy May Jewelery Designs, Cyndi Bakes, Lotus Photography, Thaheerahs Platters, Hair Beautiq, Fajria’s Savouries and Platters, The Brow Bar, Baby Doll Nail Bar and Shiyaam’s Henna Tatoos.