12 January 2016
2016 has brought with it new opportunities for the platform for civil society in Seychelles, CEPS. As part of its 2015-2016 Charity programme, the Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles has formed a partnership with Vendesto Ltd, a company involved in the wholesale merchandise business. Through this partnership, the Children’s homes of Seychelles are the first group within the sector to benefit and receive donations.
Yesterday afternoon, representatives of the children’s homes which includes Foyer de la Solitude, Foyer de Nazareth, Foyer de la Providence, Mother Theresa’s Home at Anse Etoile, and President’s Village gathered at the CEPS Conference Room. Vendesto LTD was represented by Mr Anshuman Singh and Shiva Nagraj. CEPS was represented by Faith Based Commissioner Mrs Christiane Vidot and members of the secretariat.
On behalf of all the Children’s homes and the children, Mrs Rosita Banane received the donations and thanked Vendesto LTD for recognizing the needs of the children and for choosing them to benefit from this first donation. She explained that with the beginning of the new school year, each child will have the juices to keep them refreshed during the day.
Vendesto LTD’s retail business was established late in 2013 and renewed business strategy in May last year. As part of its strategy, the company has recognized the works being done by CEPS to bring together civil society organizations and the current works being undertaken by the different organizations. The two parties will continue to work together throughout the year and have began to discuss project ideas that will benefit the sector in 2016.
CEPS Charity programme has been set up not only for the growth of the platform but also for the benefit of our 60 members. 2015 has been a good year for the platform as different businesses and organizations teamed up with the platform for various programmes. As part of this, CEPS received a donation of flat screen television for members having offices and secretariats from a donor.
Also in 2015, through partnerships, CEPS members have had the chance to attend international training as well as receive project funding opportunities from various stakeholders dedicated towards the growth of the civil society sector in the country.
Through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), that platform benefited from contributions made by Winmar Trading, Kerai Construction and Throwbathy Store. Funds donated have been used to build the capacity of secretariat staff who have managed to receive local based training in line with the work they undertake. Also through this source of funding the platform had the opportunity to engage with its Mauritian counterpart, the Mauritius Council of Social Service (MACOSS).
CEPS is hoping to create new partnerships in this new year so that its volunteer based members and organisations receive more opportunities and benefits.
