Patience Bukari at her shop in Nalerigu
“I have three children, and I do everything I can to ensure they are taken care of and receive an education, so they can become future leaders.” This is the story of Patience Bukari, a disabled seamstress and mother of three.
Despite her disability, Patience refuses to let it affect her passion for sewing in Nalerigu, in the North East Region.
She has defied all odds, channeling her challenges into a relentless drive to provide for herself and her children.
Her determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Patience, however, faces significant obstacles in her work due to a lack of basic materials and sewing machines.
During a visit by DAILY GUIDE to Patience’s shop in Nalerigu, it was observed that her shop had developed severe cracks, posing a danger to both her and her clients.
Again, Patience’s means of transport, which is her tricycle, has been in a poor condition for several years, affecting her movement from the house to her work place.
Patience told DAILY GUIDE in an interview that the lack of proper tools and resources makes it difficult for her to fulfil client orders, which significantly impacts her business.
“I only have one sewing machine, and it’s not enough to complete my work quickly to meet the demands of my clients,” she said.
She noted that some of her colleagues in the disability community are eager to join her to work, but she lacks the materials necessary to train them.
“I wish I could get two or three more sewing machines so I could use them to train my colleagues who are determined to learn and create livelihoods for themselves,” Patience stated.
Responding to the issue of persons with disabilities who resort to begging, Patience urged them to learn a trade and become self-employed.
“Disability is not inability. We have a lot to offer the world, and I want to encourage my peers not to let their condition dictate their future,” she stressed.
Despite her challenges, Patience continues to persevere, finding solutions and making the most of her circumstances. Her resilience and determination stand as a testament to overcoming any obstacles in her path.
FROM Eric Kombat, Nalerigu