The Bajan Dream Project

The Bajan Dream Project is a nongovernmental, social development programme based in Barbados. We promote sustainable livelihoods by providing a tailor-made, holistic intervention for disadvantaged individuals - particularly young people and individuals living in poverty. Our unique intervention focuses on skills training, sensibly targeted funding and social support as a means of achieving economic independence. Our main areas of provision include a mix of the following, tailored to meet the needs of each participant on the programme: ▪ Certification training to facilitate entry into the workforce, or into tertiary education ▪ Entrepreneurial skills training leading to business ownership ▪ Micro loans to finance short-term shocks ▪ Credit to finance business start-up and operation ▪ Low-cost housing solutions for programme graduates and eligible persons¹ ▪ Partner provided support services in mentorship, care or other welfare assistance The Bajan Dream Project also provides a number of standalone, ad-hoc services on request, including: ▪ Microloans or grants for educational fees, supplies and related costs ▪ Business plan development, with marketing/PR support for new entrepreneurs ▪ Employment agency services for first-time job seekers and zero-income persons ▪ Legal assistance particularly in business registration and landlord/tenant issues ▪ Representation of persons living with HIV in discrimination & access to care issues On a broader scope, the Bajan Dream Project is an advocate for the civil and human rights of all Barbadians, monitoring closely the extent to which Barbados meets its obligations under international charters. This blog coalesces all aspects of the Bajan Dream Project's agenda, agitating against the policies which hinder social development while promoting those which encourage equal rights and a fair chance for all to live the "Bajan dream".