CRAFT
C O T T A G E
TPDCo’s Craft Unit continues to deliver craft trainings for individuals across the island.
The most recent trainings include the Batik training in Olympic Gardens and Tie Dye training in St. Ann.
The St. Ann Tie Dye Training was conducted at the Pineapple Craft Market between March 2 and
30, 2018. The training had participants from the Ocho Rios, Pineapple and Coconut Grove Craft Markets.
Over fifty (50) persons were in attendance.
The Kingston training, which is a collaboration between TPDCo and the Social Development Commission (SDC), is
envisioned to enhance the skillset of the residents and facilitate community Development.
According to Community Development Officer for SDC, Marjanice Nelson, “the main objective of the Batik training
is to build the Olympic Gardens community and its several districts. This (training) will improve the lives of the persons
in the community by providing real job skills and instill pride in the members of the community.”
The TPDConnect team visited the Kingston training and spoke to some of our budding Craft
Entrepreneurs from the Olympic Gardens community. Check out what they had to say.
“I heard about this training about a month ago and decided to give it a try. I have never
heard of Batik and was intrigued to find out how it was done. I was impressed and continued
to participate. I intend to use my skills to earn an income and to also pass on the skills to
young persons in the community. I believe this will help to keep persons out of trouble.” Yani-
qua Gibbs
“I love craft, last year I came to the tie and dye through the SDC and that’s how I learnt of
this training. It’s my first time doing Batik and I have been enjoying it so far. I believe that
this will help community members earn an income and improve their skills” Christine Landells
“For me it was an handiwork thing, I am good with my hands so I was excited to join the
training. The Batik craft technique is interesting and I strongly believe that this training can
enhance our skills and make us marketable. I think trainings such as these will also change the
mindset of the inner city, by showing people what we are capable of.” Joy Brown
“This has helped my teamwork skills and I believe it will also help to build the community. I
have learnt to mix colours, tie and dye and much more! I have made friends and I am better
at communicating because of the many group activities.” Sharmalee Brown
“I had no idea what tie-dye was, or many other craft techniques, so I have learnt alot. I in-
tend to enroll in other craft trainings. My dream is to use my skills to create a small business
selling craft items and to take my items all over Jamaica.” Dorothy Groves
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