oegandaksph2011.reismee.nl

Monday 25th July 2011; interview Joseph & Sula (employees at ‘Riley Packaging’)

Being brothers, Joseph and Sula both grew up in Kampala city. Since their home was located nearby a crowded street, they were spotted by the wife of a British ambassador. She noticed that these young boys didn't go to school. Therefore she arranged the opportunity for both boys to study at the KSPH.

Although they didn't finish their studies, they did become financially independent. Actually the reason for their departure from KSPH was to be financially independent. With the help of the ambassadors wife they set up their own business: a shop. Due to the fact that things didn't work out the way they planned as shopkeepers, the brothers choose to search for a regular job. Eventually they found a job at a packaging factory. With some luck, since the president of the factory visits the KSPH regularly.

Financially independent
The two brothers come from a household consisting of six children. Four of them are disabled. This makes it extra special, that these guys are not only taking care of themselves, but also for their relatives. They have the willpower to work 13 hours a day, and share the believe that they be more responsible regarding their job than they already are.

Challenges
Considering the environment in which the boys grew up, they didn't have the easiest of lives. Most of the time they stood alone without any help of their family. Also the boys learned a lot from not finishing their study. For instance, they were obligated to do a computer course before they could start their jobs.

Future dreams
Since these extraordinary guys are continually looking for ways to grow, they've got clear dreams for the future. Joseph has big schemes such as the buildup of his own copy shop, facilitating the use of computers and printers to the locals. Sula's dream is to become an artist within the music business. He's already part of band, and a carrier would be his dream. Apart from this, he's got other plans to, like a wife, children, having a car for himself, and maybe to set up a small business.

Advice to others (physically disabled)
The gentlemen visit KSPH quite regularly, since one of their sisters is part of the vocational class of the institution. Therefore they've become more or less a role model to the youngsters at KSPH. With pride in their eyes, it's obvious they like the fact they're showing others anything is possible. Being an inspiration their advise to others is to always use your brains and try to finish your study. It'll help one to overcome the barriers in life. Also they advise anyone in a wheelchair to stand up for themselves. Be confident of who you are and where you're from.

Advice to government
Finally they have some tips to the government regarding their policies as well. First of all, current schools for the physically disabled are highly expensive, and should become cheaper, in order to guarantee their accessibility. Also life for one in a wheelchair is truly expensive, since they make a lot of costs regarding transport, guides (help getting in taxi, or during shopping), purchase and maintenance of wheelchairs etc. Facilities as reducing taxes for the disabled, or offering free wheelchairs are highly recommended. Finally since inequalities do emerge a lot in daily, another advise would be advocating equality.

Reacties

Reacties

Lisanne Middag

Hahaha 'clean toilets', daar moet Manon blij mee zijn geweest;) Heel veel plezier allemaal nog daar en geniet er van!

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