Abdul Azam, a 55-year-old entrepreneur from Macuata, has demonstrated that adversity does not have to dictate one’s future. Growing up in the challenging environment of rice paddies and sugarcane fields, he faced a tough childhood that compelled him to strive for a better life.
“Growing up, life was tough. It forced me to work hard and overcome my problems,” Mr. Azam reflected. After dropping out of school in Form 4, he sought better opportunities and moved to the Garden Island in the 1980s to work for a shoemaker in Somosomo. This experience served as a pivotal moment in his life, propelling him towards his dream of entrepreneurship.
With newfound skills, Mr. Azam eventually relocated to Viti Levu, where he briefly worked as a truck driver while waiting for the right opportunity. That moment came in 2000 when he opened Bob’s Shoe Repair at a small spot in the Nasinu Town Council building in Valelevu.
“Life can be unfair at times, but you must never give up,” he advised. His shoe repair shop, which specializes in repairing not only shoes but also bags and cooking stoves, is a testament to his resourcefulness. “If you have these things at home in a state of disrepair, then I am your man,” he said, encouraging customers to save their items instead of discarding them.
Despite fluctuations in earnings, Mr. Azam has managed to maintain financial stability, support his two daughters, and even acquire two properties. He takes pride in his independence as a business owner. “Because I have my own business, I can lock up anytime and go home. Nobody bosses me or tells me what to do,” he noted.
Beyond financial gains, Mr. Azam cherishes the connections he makes through his work. He finds joy in meeting people and sharing their stories, emphasizing the importance of listening to others. His journey is also marked by a commitment to steering the youth away from drugs, warning that substance abuse can severely impact lives.
“Don’t throw your life away by taking up drugs,” Mr. Azam advised. He encourages young people to nurture their lives and strive to make their parents proud.
Abdul Azam’s story is not just one of resilience; it serves as an inspiring reminder that humble beginnings can evolve into lives filled with purpose and success. Through hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, he has rewritten his narrative, proving that one’s past does not have to limit one’s future.