A young shoe-shiner in HCM City has become well known among local poor people thanks to his free service.

Nguyen Ba Cuong, 19, has a small stall on Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street in District 3. His shop has a signboard which says: "Free for lottery ticket sellers, cyclo drivers and blind people."

Cuong looks much smaller than other people at his age. But he leaves an impression on others thanks to his smiling face and enthusiastic manner.

Due to his poor family, Cuong could only finish primary school and went out to learn this work to help his parents.

Although Cuong's shop has only been opened for a year, it has attracted lots of customers who love his skilful hands and kind heart.

Cuong said that he followed his teacher, Tuan, to try to help poor people.

"My teacher used to tell me that although we’re poor, we can still help others with our work," Cuong said. "I know there are many people who are poorer than me and I always try to help them with my work."