"Nurturing Resilience in Women"
Talitha KUMI organized a three-day workshop on “Nurturing Resilience in Women” with the support of Church of Scotland, which was held in National Council of Church in Pakistan (NCCP), Lahore from 16 – 18 August 2019.
It brought together thirty-two women with diverse talents from Lahore across ages and backgrounds. The objective of the workshop;
To empower and strengthen women as agents of change in the community and church.
To inspire and learn from the faith of biblical women of resilience
To build self-belief and confidence through discussion and various activities.
Rev. Dr. Valerie Allen and Kathrine Keith from Scotland led the workshop as resource persons.
The workshop was structured in multiple sessions to train women to realise that they have the power and ability to make their own choices, and to work toward making those choices a reality, especially in areas of life where they have previously been denied a voice or choice. The participants were imparted with the skills to cope with and rise to the challenges, problems and setbacks they experience in their life, and come back stronger from it.
Participants were given pieces of stitching material to choose from and stitch something which represent their life experiences that have shaped them or built their character. Through this exercise women were able to find their voice, practice sharing their life experiences, affirm strengths, identify their inner qualities they have which they can use when advocating for change in their communities.
In second session “The Power of Voice” was discussed as using our voice to stand up for ourselves and other and speak our own truth, takes courage when we have experienced injustice, and speak on other behalf, if it is too risky for other to speak for themselves. Life stories of inspiring women of powerful voice were discuss in groups.
In third session, participants were taught about decision-making process on the issue or situation, which participants want to change.
In the wrap up session participants expressed their learning experience in the workshop and resolved to be listen and raise voice for the voiceless.
Annye Daniel said,
" I will be alert from now on to help those who are suffering violence of any kind. I will help them through counselling and connect the victim with organization like of Talitha KUMI for help. ”
Mona Yousaf expressed,
" What we have learnt in this weekend we need to teach other. This is how we can support and empower each other. ”
