On Wednesday, the Disabled Persons’ Organization (DPO) launched its very own business under the name, Yes We Can Products Limited. The company creates household cleaning products.
Drexel Deal, DPO president and General Manager of Yes We Can, said opening the business was "a joyous occasion."
Twenty-four disabled individuals work for the company.
"A year ago we made a decision to find ways to empower ourselves. It’s a privilege to be able to see this day because we pooled our meager resources to make this day a reality," he said.
Mr. Deal said the company hopes its products will be successful in local stores throughout the country.
The group also launched two products – the new heights super concentrated power laundry detergent and the new heights e-friendly power laundry detergent.
Company shareholder, William Lightbourne said the business represents "a new symbol of freedom for persons with disabilities in The Bahamas."
"Persons with disabilities can now look ahead with hope as they take ownership of a company that they have worked so hard to bring into being," he said.
"It was because of the visionary leadership of Drexel Deal, who refused to use blindness as a vehicle to drive into a state of dependency. Coupled with the courage, determination, commitment and the will to succeed . . . persons with disabilities can now embrace their ownership of a new company."
Mr. Lightbourne said the business offers a "hand up and not a handout."
"This company is a beacon of hope because it speaks to the will, fortitude and determination of a people who have been disenfranchised and at a disadvantage for decades," he said.
The company will be housed in the old Pondwash Laundromat, which is located on Alexandra and York Streets.
A former contractor, Julien Kemp, is renovating the building free of charge.
Mr. Kemp told the Journal that the renovations will cost just over $70,000. But, he said it’s a price he is willing to pay to help the disabled community.
- Austin DWI - New York DWI