Empowerment Skills Framework (ESF)
The Empowerment Skills Framework (ESF) is a comprehensive and practical methodology developed within the SHE-UNET project to support staff working in community-based organisations that provide guidance, training, and support to Ukrainian women and other migrant women, helping them strengthen their skills, build confidence, and take steps towards employment and social integration.
What is the ESF?
The ESF is a hands-on and adaptable training methodology designed to help trainers, facilitators, and support staff deliver empowerment training in an accessible, trauma sensitive and structured way.
The framework consists of e-learning materials, including:
- A trainer handbook, which explains the methodology and provides practical tools and guidance for delivering training sessions
- A participant workbook, which supports women in reflecting, developing skills, and setting personal goals.
Together, these materials form a complete, easy-to-use toolkit that can be applied in different contexts and adapted to the needs of participants.
The methodology: Pillars of Power
The ESF is based on the Pillars of Power methodology, focusing on seven pillars:
- Positive thinking
- Identity
- Safety
- Connectedness
- Resilience
- Talents
- Personal goals
These pillars support women in building confidence and self-awareness, while also strengthening their opportunities to access the labour market and actively participate in society.
Who is it for?
The ESF is designed for:
- Staff and trainers in Empowerment Hubs
- NGOs and organisations supporting migrant women
- Coaches, facilitators, and social workers
- Community organisations working on empowerment and integration
What can you do with the ESF?
With the ESF, you can:
- Deliver structured and effective empowerment trainings
- Support women in building confidence and recognising their strengths
- Guide participants in setting personal and professional goals
- Adapt the training to different groups and contexts
- Strengthen inclusion and access to the labour market
A flexible and scalable toolkit
The ESF is designed as a flexible toolkit, meaning it can be easily understandable and adapted depending on the context and participants’ needs. The Pillars can be used separately or in order as a complete Empowerment training. It can be used within SHE-UNET, but also by other Empowerment Hubs and organisations in the community.
