$100 can train a Badjao Indigenous woman with skills in bakery and pastry production.

The Badjao, like many of the Philippines’ indigenous peoples, are a neglected tribe. Commonly referred
to as “sea gypsies” because they live and fish in coastal areas, the Badjao live in extreme poverty – often beyond the reach of state assistance due to their nomadic existence. The result is that many of them join the ranks of beggars in the Philippines’ urban centers. Their job opportunities are limited due to deficient education and skills. For many young Badjao women, early marriage, as young as 13, is pushed by security for basic needs.

Reledev Australia continues to work on educating and supporting young women in the country. The Reledev-funded Bread and Pastry Production course at BCPD focuses on unlocking education and giving these young Badjao women opportunities to build their livelihoods.