Brazil: Building skills and livelihoods through professional training
Supporting access to employment and income opportunities across communities
In Brazil, together with Instituto Givaudan—an organisation implementing community projects in São Paulo—we support the professional integration of individuals from vulnerable socio-economic backgrounds through a range of training and capacity-building initiatives.
Professional massage training for people with visual impairment (2017–ongoing)
Supporting the employability and social inclusion of visually impaired or blind individuals can present challenges, often linked to barriers in accessing education and training opportunities.
Since 2017, we have been running a project that provides training in quick amma and shiatsu massage techniques to adults with visual impairment. The aim is to equip participants with practical skills that can improve their access to employment and support their professional integration.
The following video provides more insight about the project supported.
Fragrance training (2021–2023)
This project introduced participants to the creation of fragranced products such as candles, room sprays, and glycerine soaps, building on the technical expertise of Givaudan volunteers.
In addition to product development, training covered packaging, logistics, and business skills—including sales, marketing, and finance—helping participants develop income-generating activities.
Bakery training for low-income communities (2022–2024)
This initiative supported individuals from low-income neighbourhoods in developing professional baking skills and accessing employment opportunities.
Participants were trained in food hygiene, recipe reading, and the preparation of different types of bread. They also had opportunities to sell their products locally, and many have since secured employment as bakers in local bakeries or supermarkets.
Professional sewing training (2023–2024)
This project supported a group of women from low-income communities in developing sewing skills and generating income through the production of bags made from recycled materials.
Participants attended an advanced sewing course and received training in areas such as marketing, sales, and basic financial management. The initiative also supported access to equipment and materials, as well as opportunities to sell products at local markets, helping participants strengthen their economic independence.
Professional hairdressing training (2023–2025)
This initiative supported participants in advancing their hairdressing skills through an accredited professional training programme.
Participants developed expertise in areas such as hair treatment, colouring, and applied cosmetology. The programme also included support in marketing and communication, helping participants expand their client base and improve their income opportunities.
Supporting women into industrial employment (2024–ongoing)
More recently, our support has expanded to help women in accessing careers in industrial production.
Participants receive training and mentorship aimed at strengthening their technical and professional skills. By addressing barriers to entry in traditionally male-dominated sectors, the initiative helps improve employability, with several participants already securing stable employment.
