He has survived famine, drug addiction and life on the streets. But today Seid Nurye (38) from Addis Ababa in Ethiopia is a successful tailor and business owner. And because he believes the way he turned around his life can be an example for young people, he is committed to helping them rise above difficult circumstances by training and employing them.
Before he became a part of the SOS Children’s Village family in Addis Ababa in 1981, Seid survived the famine in Northern Ethiopia. He describes his time in the village as “golden days” and remembers the laughter, fun, picnics and games he played with his friends.
Unfortunately Seid made the wrong friends, which led to him to drop out of school and become addicted to drugs. Soon he found himself on the streets of Addis Ababa where he resorted to pickpocketing to stay alive.
But Seid knew he could turn to SOS Children’s Villages for help when he decided to change for the better. He was sent to a training centre where he learned how to be a tailor. After completing the course, he was given a small sewing machine, some material to get started and enough money to cover his rent for six months. He never looked back.
“I strongly believe that my greatest achievement is my commitment to quit those bad habits and change my life. I remain strong in my decision and have been working hard to be a better person,” said Seid.Seid already has two tailor shops where he is currently employing four young people. He selects young people who have an interest to learn and develop themselves. It is his dream to expand in order to create many more job opportunities for youth.
“If these young people get the opportunity, they change not only their lives, but also those of their families and the community,” Seid stated. He is, after all, a living example of this.
“Seid is a symbol of courage, commitment and strength. Someone who was known for substance abuse and theft is no longer in the same place. Now he is a person who contributes to the development of his community.”
Source SOS
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