Through the MWF Mandela Washington fellowship, young African leaders initiative Reciprocal exchange program, funded by the U.S state department and administered by IREX.

FCRPD in collaboration with Dr. Sharon Simmons. An associate professor in the college of Business from Jackson state university JSU in the U.S. organized three days business training entitlement entrepreneurship without barriers for 20 entrepreneurs with disabilities in the Gambia on business strategies and skill on how to expand their businesses. Through the MWF Reciprocal exchange, Dr. Sharon had the opportunity to visit the Gambia and conducted the training. During the three days training, Participants were introduced to very important business skills and ideas such as the canvas business model and other strategies which will go a long way in helping to improve and uplift their skills to a standard form. They were as well exposed to skills on how to make a perfect pitch which Will help in attracting potential partners and funding opportunities.

In addition to the training, participants were provided with assistive devices such as Talking calculators, talking scales. Tablets, etc. this will help them in working on their respective businesses independently without having to fully depend on others.

Thanks to the U.S State department and IREX for such a great initiative as the MWF young African leaders initiative YALI . Much appreciations to Dr. Sharron Simmons and the entire staff of JSU.Together we can achieve the the change we looking for.