Shillong (India). On 9 May 2025, the day commemorating the birth of Saint Mary Domenica Mazzarello (9 May 1837), 56 young trainees received the Diploma at the end of their professional formation in tailoring and embroidery at the Auxilium Life Skills Training Centre in Nongthymmai, Shillong, of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians of Mary Immaculate Help of Christians Community, Immaculate Heart of Mary Province (INS).
The ceremony of conferring diplomas took place in the presence of Mr. Charles Pyngrope, member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of the electoral college of Nongthymmai; of Sister Chantal Mukase, General Visiting Councilor of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians; of the Provincial of INS, Sister Rosa Pyngrope.
Present at the event were Mr. Earningstone R. Sangma, Industrial Promotion Officer of the Department of the District Trade and Industries Center (DCIC); the FMA Provincial Councilors; the staff and trainees of the Formation Center.
The tailoring trainees showed their sewn clothes creations through a fashion show, while the embroidery trainees exhibited the “jaiñsem”, a traditional Khasi dress embroidered by them.
The Ceremony began with a welcome discourse by Sister Rosalin Warbah, head of the Vocational Formation Center, followed by greetings to the guests and a chant performed by current trainees, which created a familiar and welcoming atmosphere.
Diploma certificates were distributed by Mr. Charles Pyngrope, Sister Chantal Mukase, and Sister Rosa Pyngrope. The awarding of diplomas symbolizes the successful completion of the training program, which has provided trainees with valuable skills that are crucial for their future.
In her intervention, Sister Rosa stressed the value of this type of formation for today’s times, as a continuation of the work of Mary Domenica Mazzarello. The event was, in fact, particularly in line with the day, being the 188th birthday of the Cofounder of the FMA Institute.
Mr. Charles spoke about the integral growth offered by the Salesian Sisters to the beneficiaries of their mission and urged the trainees to contribute to preserving the cultural heritage of the place.
In concluding, Sister Chantal stressed the importance of developing women’s skills and of their empowerment with these words: “As you receive your certificates today, remember that this is not just a piece of paper. It is a sign of your perseverance and a gateway to new opportunities. You are now equipped with the skills to pursue your dreams, whether it is starting your own business, creating a tailoring and embroidery service, or undertaking other activities.”
In addition to showcasing their skills in tailoring and embroidery, the trainees also expressed their talents through various dances including a tribal fusion dance and the “Heal the World” dance, highlighting creativity and their own potential.
At the conclusion of the presentation of the Diplomas, there was the inauguration of the exhibit hall in which the embroidery and tailoring trainees presented their work, the result of a year’s hard work, demonstrating the new skills acquired.
The Auxilium Life Skills Training Center is an initiative of the Shillong Province. It is dedicated to skill training for the empowerment of young women and to promote community development. Throughout these years, it has collaborated with organizations such as the East Khasi Hills District Trade and Industry Center, Shillong (DCIC) supporting activities and projects to improve society.
