Global Sisters, an esteemed Australian not-for-profit organization, has received a substantial grant of $736,000 from Google.org to launch a three-year pilot program. This program aims to empower women with disabilities and their carers to attain economic independence through self-employment opportunities.
Founded in 2016 by Mandy Richards, a social entrepreneur, Global Sisters aims to overcome the barriers that women face in accessing mainstream employment. The organization's approach is to empower women to create income streams through self-employment, primarily in circumstances where traditional job opportunities are limited.
The pilot program, funded by Google.org, will provide women with disabilities and carers with the necessary resources to establish sustainable micro-businesses. These resources include skill development programs, networking opportunities, confidence-building exercises, and personalized coaching tailored to their specific needs.
By creating a conducive environment for micro-business development, Global Sisters seeks to offer women with disabilities increased financial stability and independence. The program's comprehensive support structure addresses the systemic barriers that often marginalize women in the workforce and limit their access to mainstream employment opportunities.
Global Sisters focuses on supporting micro-businesses led by marginalized women, including those with disabilities, Indigenous women, migrants, refugees, and women over 50. The Cheyutha scheme, implemented by Global Sisters, plays a crucial role in supporting these micro-businesses. The program disburses an impressive annual sum of $18,750 crore to members of self-help groups (SGH), amounting to a staggering $75,000 crore over four years. Additionally, 36 Mahila Marts established by SGHs have collectively generated an impressive business revenue of $32 crore.
With Google.org's visionary support, Global Sisters has been able to transform the lives of over 5,500 women to date, offering more than $7.6 million in free business support for women-led micro-businesses. Mandy Richards expressed her gratitude for Google.org's belief in their model and the critical backing for their demonstration project.
Global Sisters also calls upon corporations and individuals to contribute to their mission through pro bono coaching, financial investments, collaborative efforts, and purchasing from their Global Sisters Marketplace. Their aim is to create a stronger, more inclusive future where women thrive in their micro-businesses, exit the welfare system, and contribute positively to their communities.
