In an effort to empower the Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) community, Pundi Sumatra has organized a series of skills training in the SAD settlement. This program aims to improve the skills of community members and open up new economic opportunities for them. So that it can improve their overall welfare.
In May 2024, Pundi Sumatra with the support of the Partnership Partnership held skills training in two locations assisted by the SAD community. Ulvi, as the facilitator of Pundi Sumatra, explained that this makeup training aims to provide makeup skills to SAD women. Not only that, it also provides education on how to do makeup, as well as mapping potential cadres who are interested in makeup skills. "Hopefully, this training can foster alternative economic opportunities based on life skills for the SAD women's group," she said.
Cosmetology training begins with an explanation of the types of make-up used in cosmetology, followed by demonstrations and practice. The participants were invited to immediately try the techniques taught, so they could experience firsthand how to apply make-up correctly. This includes learning basic techniques such as applying everyday make-up to more complex techniques such as applying make-up for special occasions.
It is not only women's groups that receive attention. This training fosters alternative economic sources for men's groups through hairdressing training. Temenggung Juray, a traditional leader, said, "This hairdressing training is useful for us. If there are already skilled ones, we don't need to go to the barber on the road." This training provides an opportunity for SAD men to learn practical skills that can be directly applied in everyday life.
The trainers faced challenges in communicating with this indigenous group, given the cultural and language differences. Therefore, the concept of this training was carried out using direct demonstration methods and intensive practice. So that participants can learn practically. Hadi, one of the barber training resource persons, said "Actually I often see these SAD people, but this is the first time for me to teach them to cut hair." I was surprised that they were interested in learning to cut hair."
This skills training is expected to have a positive impact on the SAD community. With the skills they gain, community members can open their own businesses. Both in the field of make-up and hairdressing. So that it can increase family income and reduce their dependence on traditional jobs that may not always be economically profitable.
In addition, this training also aims to increase the self-confidence and independence of community members. By having new skills, they are expected to be more active and confident in interacting with the outside world. And better able to manage their own lives.
The training organized by Pundi Sumatra is a concrete step in efforts to empower the SAD community. With continued support from various parties, it is hoped that programs like this can continue to run and provide greater benefits for indigenous communities throughout Indonesia.
