Skill Building Brings Confidence

Chitso is married, has three children, and lives with her in-laws and grandparents. She takes care of their family of eight members. Her husband works away from home in a factory and only comes home once a month to see the children. Chitso serves as the representative of the women in her village. She shares how the My First Job Assistant Chef Program has helped in empowering these women, not only as providers for their families but also as members of their community.

“I think the training in the My First Job Assistant Chef program is of great significance to us. Young women often have to ask their husbands for every penny they need, which is very uncomfortable. We only stay at home and usually have no power to make decisions in the family. We have very few opportunities. By learning a skill, we have the ability to support ourselves for the future.” 

Chitso with Carrie (left), our partner Shamtse’s project coordinator, and Francine (right) from our Captivating office.

“We are grateful that this program has teachers speaking in Tibetan. We are able to understand the training better. Our teachers are also very open and patient in helping us solve our problems and improve our skills.”

Chitso hopes to be able to open a restaurant near her home in the near future. “Not only will it help me increase my income and take care of my family; it will also help me feel more confident about myself and my abilities,” she concludes.

When women are equipped with employable / income-generating skills, we not only give them a chance to make a living for themselves and their families; we also help build their confidence in themselves and in what they are capable of.

Currently 103 women, in 4 different areas, are concluding their My First Job internships. Celebrating all women who have found and are still finding their way and voice in society. Happy International Women’s Month!

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