Opening a way to make a living
After more than 10 years of making a living on the streets as a shoemaker, the boy Nguyen Van Phuc has now become the CEO of "Leather Hospital" and the founder of the project "I am good".
Originating from his strong passion for leather goods and the desire to create value for the community, Mr. Phuc has realized his dream of a spa model, restoring a professional sofa. In 2018, " Dermatology Hospital" was officially born, carrying a noble mission: both affirming service quality and becoming a "backbone" for livelihoods for disadvantaged workers.
Young master Ngo Dinh Chi Huy (Hoang Mai, Hanoi) seems to have found a new future for himself when coming to Mr. Phuc's "Leather Hospital". With a small stature and limited health compared to his peers, Huy had a hard time finding a suitable job. In the first days of getting acquainted, I encountered many difficulties because repairing leather goods was a completely new field. However, thanks to the companionship and enthusiastic guidance of the brothers in the workshop, the young worker gradually overcame the pressure, became confident and steadfastly followed the path he had chosen.
"I come from a family with difficult circumstances. When I found a job that could support myself, I was very happy. But it's even better than that. Everyone is always ready to help me when my family is in trouble. Mr. Phuc is the one who accompanies and supports me to overcome the most difficult times, when I myself do not know how to cope" - Huy could not hide his emotions.
Not stopping there, Mr. Nguyen Van Phuc also cherishes the desire to spread human values more strongly, opening the door to career for the disabled community. From that concern, a project called Im Good was born. With the goal of vocational training and supporting materials for members to make handmade leather goods, Mr. Phuc has created many more job opportunities, given sustainable livelihoods and continued hope to people with disabilities.
Before participating in the project "I am good", Ms. Tran Phuong Trang (Hoang Mai, Hanoi) lived a closed life because of the looks and teases related to her deformed face. And then a series of family incidents occurred in a short time, causing her life to fall into a deadlock, sometimes falling into a state of despair.
However, the opportunity to come to the project "I am good" opened up a new direction for her. During an activity at the Association of People with Disabilities in Hoang Mai district, Ms. Trang was introduced to the project. Mr. Phuc's enthusiasm and sincere invitation gave her more motivation, helping her decide to start work.
"In the first days, I was helped a lot by Mr. Phuc and his friends in the project. From a shy girl, I was taught and instructed by everyone. There is no concept of superiors and subordinates here, everyone learn from each other and treats each other sincerely" - Ms. Trang said.
Efforts to create new opportunities
Understanding the difficulties of disadvantaged groups, especially those with disabilities, Mr. Nguyen Van Phuc always strives to spread human values, create more job opportunities and integrate for them.
When I went to each disabled person Association, interacted and listened more, I realized that the unemployment rate in this group was still very high. Some people are lucky enough to find a job but mainly seasonal work with a low income, only about 15 - 20 thousand VND/hour. That always motivates me to do something to support you to have more stable jobs, reduce dependence on family and society.
I believe that everyone has certain abilities. The important thing is to give them the right opportunities and positions to promote their strengths. At that time, you can completely shine in your own way" - Mr. Phuc shared about the reason for continuing to establish the project "I am good".
In the early days of its establishment, Mr. Phuc himself also faced many difficulties. The leather goods making profession requires high meticulousness, which is already a challenge for unskilled workers, and is even more difficult for disadvantaged workers. Therefore, he always reminds himself to be persistent in the training process. Mr. Phuc does not put himself in the role of a teacher or manager but considers himself a companion, standing side by side with his friends throughout the working process.
Talking to reporters, Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Chi - Vice President of the Hoang Mai Inter-Ward Association for the Disabled highly appreciated Mr. Phuc's project. At the same time, he hoped the project would continue to develop more strongly to spread this positive message.
The I am good and Leather Hospital projects founded by Mr. Phuc have created jobs for many workers, including many from disadvantaged groups.
For the "I am good" project, people with disabilities can work in flexible environments, can choose to work at home or gather at the workshop depending on their conditions and personal needs. Thanks to that, many people have a stable income from their own labor, gradually self-reliant and reducing the burden on their families and society" - Ms. Chi said.
