As part of its involvement in the ILO-HSF project on the Economic and Psycho-Social Empowerment of Returned Women Victims of Trafficking, fifteen women members of DAWN trained in cosmetology at the Splash Foundation from December 2-6, 2008. Part of the training was to learn the basics of hair cutting, hair perming, manicure, pedicure, footspa, and reflexology. This training was made possible through the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), also a partner in the said project.

Some of those who trained have already availed of other trainings, and most of them are also members of the cooperative. They were told of the training and decided that this can add to their skills which they can eventually use to earn additional income. There were difficulties in the training, which included the allotment of time for the training thus leaving the care of their children to other members of the family, traveling from their residences to the training center, bringing in models, and the commitment to finish the entire course. Fortunately, these were overcome and all 15 women were able to graduate.

After graduation, the women were expected to render community service by the Splash Foundation. The staff of DAWN made sure that the women will stand by their commitment and do community sharing. There was also an updating on their progress after the training.

Some of the women who graduated from the training were not that confident yet in applying the skills they learned. DAWN encouraged them to practice. There was also constant discussion and follow up on what they have done after the training. During the discussions, they shared that they would want to practice but do not have space at home. Some also said they could not practice because they are engaged in other economic activities.

One of the things DAWN did was to set aside a space in its office, which the women can use as parlor. Eventually, it was called a wellness center instead of a beauty parlor since reflexology and massage are also being offered. Equipments and supplies were bought for the wellness center. On March 9, the wellness center had its soft opening. Eight of those who trained were present during the opening to provide discounted services.

Two more women members of DAWN have since trained in cosmetology. One of them finished the entire cosmetology course that included salon management and she is now handling the operations of the wellness center.

To promote the services of the DAWN Wellness Center, flyers have been distributed to encourage people to try the place. The initial target clients were tenants in the building and some of them have become regular customers.

The DAWN Wellness Center has continued to provide quality services for those who want to feel good about themselves. To date, the center has expanded to offer “home/office service.