Nguyen Thanh Hai does not just help disabled children to have a job but more importantly, he makes them feel that their lives are meaningful.

Hai and his student with colourful dragonflies

It is very difficult for normal people to make handicraft products but it is much more difficult for those with a disability to do this, said Nguyen Thanh Hai, owner of a handicraft company.

Teaching is a traditional profession of Hai’s family but he is interested in making bamboo dragonflies, cyclos, bicycles and other handicraft products.

He established Thanh Son Limited Company at a Small Area No. 2, Dong Son, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh.

Hai took care of every aspect of in his company from the very beginning. When he wanted to “hire” five disabled children from the Invalid Training Center of Dong Hoi, many people in his family tried to stop him and some even thought that he was crazy. However, Hai still made up his mind to adopt them.

Hai shared, “Many people doubted me or thought that I probably took advantage of the disabled children to earn money. I believe that they get a better chance if they are able to work.”

“During initial days, I held the hands of each student to instruct them through each step. It took a half month to teach them how to use tools,” added Hai.

Hai does not only teach them how to work, he always shares with their joys and their tears. He understands that they often feel a complex so he tries to talk to them and encourage them. Now Hai’s company has become their second home.

“Hai is a strict teacher but he cares about us a lot. He teaches us many things. Now we know how to make these handicraft items very well,” said one of Hai’s student's.

“I haven't been able to speak since I was born but I have two hands. I feel very happy when I can draw and colour these dragon flies,” expressed Hanh through sign language.

They can earn VND500,000-600,000 ($26.3-31.5) each per month. They will have some bonuses if they work overtime as well.

“I am very happy that I can earn money by myself,” motioned Thuan, who cannot speak or hear, with his hands.

Gradually, many disabled people have come to know about Hai’s company and want to attend his training courses. Hai never charges them a penny but does pay them a salary. After training courses, some want to stay and work for him while others move elsewhere to work.

Now Hai’s company has nine skilled workers. Their products have been exported to USA, UK, and Canada.

One of Hai’s staff making bamboo dragonflies