In a bid to empower women and girls in Plateau State, the Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS), supported by Women for Women International, conducted its quarterly Life Skills Coaching session on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. The event, held at the CWEENS conference hall in Rayfield, Jos, brought together participants from various conflict-affected communities to receive vital training aimed at improving their ability to navigate life’s challenges and enhance their livelihoods.
Dirmicit Binyir Pyentam, Program Manager at CWEENS, emphasized the critical role life skills play in personal development, particularly for women who have faced significant adversities. “Life skills are like survival skills,” she stated. “In Plateau State, we have witnessed numerous violent conflicts, especially in areas like Mangu, Bassa, and Bokos. Many of our participants are survivors of these conflicts or have experienced gender-based violence. This training is designed to build their capacity so they can face and overcome these challenges.”
The training session covered a range of essential topics, including problem-solving, decision-making, and financial literacy. “We are equipping these women with the knowledge and skills they need to reintegrate into their communities and families,” Pyentam added. “With these tools, they will be able to make informed decisions and take control of their lives.”
Janet Beatrice, Shelter Manager at CWEENS, highlighted the significance of life skills coaching in helping women regain their sense of self and autonomy. “It’s very important for women, especially those who participated today, to have these skills because they not only improve their lifestyles but also empower them to better manage their livelihoods,” she explained. “Women often face one form of violence or another, and this training helps them build resilience and capacity to handle daily challenges.”
She further noted, “Women often forget themselves while taking care of their families. This training reminds them of the importance of self-care and personal growth. It’s about helping them realize that they need to invest in themselves, even as they continue to care for their loved ones.”
Joy Machunga, General Secretary of CWEENS, provided insight into the organization’s history and mission. “CWEENS was founded in 2010 when a group of women came together to pray and seek God’s direction on how to support women who are suffering and struggling,” she said. “We have been providing psychosocial support to women and girls, many of whom come from abused backgrounds or have suffered gender-based violence. This coaching helps them build self-esteem and confidence, enabling them to reintegrate into society and contribute meaningfully.”
Machunga expressed gratitude to Women for Women International for sponsoring the training. “We are deeply thankful for their support,” she said. “The life skills coaching we provide helps these women stand on their own, learn self-care, and contribute positively to society. This partnership has been a blessing, and we hope it continues to flourish.”
Participants at the event shared their experiences and the impact of the training on their lives. Gaya Gift, one of the attendees, expressed her appreciation, saying, “I learned about setting goals in a more structured way. It’s not just about writing down goals; it’s about taking specific steps to achieve them. The communication skills training was also eye-opening. I want to thank CWEENS and Women for Women International for this opportunity.”
Archie Patience, another participant, reflected on the emotional support the training provided. “I learned that it’s normal to make mistakes and to be afraid, but it’s important not to let those fears hold you back,” she said. “This training has given me the confidence to trust myself and the decisions I make.”
Nanchin David, attending a CWEENS seminar for the first time, was equally impressed. “I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I learned so much about communication, financial management, and how to take care of myself,” she shared. “This program has been incredibly impactful, and I feel more confident about facing the challenges in my life.”
The training session covered various life skills, including communication, goal-setting, problem-solving, self-care, relationship and boundary setting, and financial literacy and management. The comprehensive nature of the program aimed to equip women with the tools they need to overcome past traumas, reintegrate into society, and thrive both personally and professionally. As the program concluded, participants left with renewed hope and a stronger sense of agency, ready to take on the challenges ahead with resilience and confidence.
