Mothers who care with hands that thrive.

On October 19, 2026, at the UNICEF Angola facilities, a four-day training action began that trained mothers and caregivers of children with disabilities and with additional support needs in the production of handmade jewelry from recycled paper.

In Angola, many families of children with disabilities face significant socio-economic challenges, often compounded by the additional responsibilities associated with caregiving. Mothers and caregivers, in particular, often have limited access to employment and income-generating opportunities, reducing their ability to respond to their children's specific needs and adequately support their development.

Recognizing that strengthening families is essential for the realization of the rights of children with disabilities, UNICEF Angola has been investing in initiatives that strengthen parenting skills, promote psychosocial well-being and strengthen family resilience. In this context, in 2025, UNICEF launched a pioneering capacity-building initiative aimed at families of children with neurodivergence and their caregivers, providing knowledge and practical tools to improve care practices, promote inclusion and strengthen family and community support networks.

Based on this integrated approach to supporting families, UNICEF implemented a practical training programme in the production of paper beads and handmade jewellery making for mothers and caregivers of children with disabilities.

Through four hands-on training sessions, participants gained skills to transform recycled materials into marketable handmade products, including bracelets, necklaces, and other accessories. In addition to production techniques, the training introduced basic principles of quality control, pricing, and marketing, enabling participants to develop sustainable livelihood opportunities and strengthen their ability to respond to their children's needs.

The training was given by Dr. Ojongmboh Achere and was attended by 15 participants, including mothers and caregivers and also people with disabilities.

Among them was Ana Maria, mother of a 28-year-old autistic woman and coordinator of the Atypical Families of the Longuessa Moname Association.

"Autistic children present several challenges, and one of the challenges is even the mother stopping working to take care of the autistic child. So, this training is beneficial for each mother who is participating, because we will be able to carry out these activities in the family context, create something that we can sell and, at the same time, remain in an environment where we can also take care of our children."

The relevance of this initiative was also highlighted by Esmeraldina Miguel, president of the Angolan Federation of Associations of People with Disabilities, who underlined the importance of promoting sustainable opportunities for families.

"Here we are taking the hook and not the fish. Truly, this is what people with disabilities need: that they be given the hook so that they can fish."

The message reflects the central purpose of the initiative: to provide families with practical and sustainable tools that allow them to generate income autonomously, while strengthening their ability to care for and support the development of their children.

To support the start of this activity, UNICEF provided the necessary materials to facilitate the start of production and allow the participants to immediately put into practice the knowledge acquired during the training.

The cycle does not end with the closing of the sessions. Participants will continue to receive support in the development of their small businesses, including support in identifying opportunities to promote and market the products at community events, school fairs, UNICEF-supported initiatives and local craft markets.

More than an opportunity to generate income, this initiative seeks to strengthen the autonomy of families and create conditions for children with disabilities to grow up in more inclusive, stable and welcoming environments. By strengthening the economic capacity and confidence of their caregivers, it also contributes to a better response to the specific needs of these children, promoting their development, participation and well-being in the family and community.