Sedeme promotes patchwork carpet course at UsiPaz Jurunas/Condor in Belém
The initiative aims to foster local socioeconomic development, providing income generation opportunities through new knowledge
With the commitment to strengthen the socioeconomic development of the communities surrounding the Usinas da Paz, the Government of Pará, through the Secretary of Economic Development, Mining and Energy (Sedeme), promoted another craft workshop on "Patchwork Carpets." This time at the Jurunas/Condor unit — an initiative that combines training, creativity, and income generation.
With a workload of 8 hours/class, the workshop held on August 12 and 13 gathered about 10 residents from the nearby communities. The initiative aims to foster local socioeconomic development by offering income generation opportunities through knowledge sharing. At the end of the activities, participants received a certificate of completion.
The action is part of the action schedule of the Secretary of Economic Development, Mining and Energy (Sedeme), within the scope of the Usina da Paz Project (UsiPaz), which is included in the Territories for Peace Program (TerPaz), executed by the Government of Pará, under the coordination of the Strategic Secretary of Citizenship Articulation (Seac).
The practical activities were conducted by architect Roseliza Velloso, who taught basic and creative techniques for composing handmade craft pieces. "The proposal is to stimulate creativity through the creation of new forms and styles," explained Roseliza.
"In the carpet course, I try to present accessible alternatives for those who do not have all the tools. One example is the loom: here, we use cardboard as a substitute, a simple and effective solution that compensates for the absence of traditional equipment," she added.
During the course, participants learn about color harmony, material selection, assembly, conservation, and market trends. In addition to technical knowledge, the workshop also encourages entrepreneurial spirit by showing that the handmade carpets can be marketed as decorative pieces for various environments.
The Secretary of Economic Development, Mining and Energy, Paulo Bengtson, explains that the initiative directly contributes to the socioeconomic development of the communities by providing real income generation opportunities through training for the job market, discovering new skills, and fostering entrepreneurship.
Among the workshop participants was hairdresser Norma Nascimento Rodrigues, 46, who has lived in the Jurunas neighborhood for over two decades. For her, the activities promoted by Usina da Paz represent an opportunity to venture into new areas.
Norma highlighted that this was the third workshop she participated in, reinforcing her interest in expanding knowledge and diversifying income sources. "I have already completed a course on bag production techniques, another on basic sewing, and now this one on carpets. The Usina da Paz Jurunas/Condor has come to make a difference in our community. Here we have access to services such as document issuance, sports activities, leisure, and much more. I intend, in the future, to put into practice everything I am learning here and, who knows, also pursue entrepreneurship in the craft area," she stated.
Seamstress Maria Raimunda, 72, also participated in the workshop and highlighted the relevance of the initiative. "The Usina da Paz Jurunas/Condor has come to make a difference in our community. The workshops offer opportunities to learn new trades and ensure extra income. I have been attending this space since its inauguration, participating in hydro gym classes and courses in search of new knowledge, and I know that I can combine or even integrate my sewing with crafts," she said.
