Second chance at success

Laura Redpath, Senior Gleaner Writer

Three months ago Sandra* told The Gleaner she intended to start her sewing business while running a cook shop on the side.

She received her certificate of qualification on Wednesday, signalling the successful completion of her six-month training in sewing drapes and other home furnishings.

Sandra, who was arrested in the United Kingdom in 2001 for drug trafficking and later sent home, is one of 21 deported women graduating from the Garmex HEART Academy.

She was accompanied by her husband, who stood by her while she was in prison, and other family members.

"I am working on three sewing projects right now," she said, beaming. "I'm sewing some bed sheets and things seem to be coming together."

After spending an entire day swallowing 71 pellets nine years ago, Sandra boarded the 'cocaine express' and was on her way to London Gatwick, where she was arrested.

Upon returning to Jamaica, she was assisted by a pilot project, implemented by Hibiscus Jamaica and the Institute of Sustainable Development, for women who were once incarcerated, to learn new skills that would make them self-reliant.

Job challenge

However, media personality Mutabaruka, who was a guest speaker at the graduation, reminded the women that there are economic challenges that make jobs hard to find.

"Trust me," he said, looking at the individual graduates with a piercing gaze, "nuttin nuh out deh".

Driving his point home, he turned to Rachel Ustanny of Hibiscus Jamaica, asking her if all of the new graduates would be placed.

She shook her head.

"This is the time," Mutabaruka said, "to develop an idea. What am I going to do for myself?"

Mutabaruka, whose bare feet touched the cool tiles of the lecture hall, was a favourite among the graduates who appreciated his charisma and honesty.

"You nah look to the society fi make you happy," he told them, while noting that there may be opportunities available.

"If you don't get that help, it's not the end of the world."

The Supporting Jamaican Deported Migrants and Their Families project will run until March of next year.

Name changed upon request.

laura.redpath@gleanerjm.com