Using adversity to create opportunities

Afzal Deendial is a former GUYSUCO estate worker. He worked 21 years at the Enmore Estate and when that estate closed recently instead of giving up or allowing himself to become frustrated, Deendial decided that he was going to find ways in maintaining his economic viability. As such, he ventured into establishing a barber shop and a small cash crop farm. The barber shop, ‘Classy Touch Barber Shop’ and the cash crop farm are both located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, where Deendial lives with his family. “I was disappointed when the estate closed as I had 21 long years working there. However, I refuse to give up as I have a family to care and feed and I can’t allow that situation to get me weak,” he said.

Deendial hearing about the Self Reliance Business Workshops for women approached RDC Region Four with a simple and clear request and that is to be a part of the workshop so that he can benefit from some business related training. He said that all he wanted was the little know how on how to get started officially and tips on running the business.

His request was granted and Deendial has expressed gratitude and thanks to the first lady, Mrs Sandra Granger on the initiative and the Regional Chairman, Ms. Genevieve Allen on making the opportunity possible as he declared, “I will use this training to further grow my barber shop and cash crop farm as hopefully it may even create employment for others.” Congratulations Deendial!!!!

Afzal Deendial is second from the left surrounded by officials of the RDC and the course facilitators.