The Gizo Market Vendors Association (GMVA) has successfully completed a two-day Leadership Skills Training in Gizo, Western Province.
The workshop, held at the Outback Living Conference Space, commenced on Tuesday and concluded on Wednesday.
The training targeted GMVA executives and members, including women market vendors and other ordinary members.
Speaking to Solomon Star, National Project Coordinator of Markets for Change (M4C) under UN Women, Mrs. Alice Kale, said the training focused on transformational leadership.
Mrs. Kale explained that the objective of the training was to help participants understand the concept of transformational leadership and how it can be applied within the association.
“To become a transformational leader, one must first transform oneself. Leaders must understand who they are as a person and as a leader in order to effectively lead others,” she said.
She added that the training aimed to increase women’s representation in Market Vendors Associations (MVAs) and in decision-making roles.
The sessions also covered leadership styles, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and personal value-driven action.
Principal Women’s Desk Officer under the Western Provincial Government (WPG), Mrs. Lisi Wong Binet, acknowledged UN Women’s Markets for Change programme for its continued support.
Mrs. Binet said the programme not only provides leadership training but also supports the establishment of Market Vendors Associations and market constitutions.
She said the support has benefited not only Gizo Market but also markets in Noro, Munda and Seghe.
“UN Women M4C also provides capacity-building training for women, especially in women’s economic empowerment, women’s participation, hygiene and food safety, first aid, and disaster management, including the development of disaster management manuals for market vendors,” Mrs. Binet added.
She also acknowledged the Western Provincial Government for it’s continues support towards empowering women in the region.
The training was funded and facilitated by UN Women’s Markets for Change programme.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
