After four years of seasonal work and many challenges, Jafet Toukoune did not give up on his dream of owning his own business, “J&T Barbers and Beauty Salon.” He has now opened his first new barber shop in Erakor.

This young man, who has taken part in seasonal work for four years, has turned his dream of owning a barber shop into reality, after facing many challenges in finding work.

“When we finish school, it is hard to find a job. Since 2021, I have been trying to find a job, but it’s hard. And since COVID-19, my parents didn’t go to work, so it’s hard.”

Mr. Toukoune says the main idea behind the business is to give back to his family and community, and to help people in his community.

“Yes, the idea is to give back to the community and family. I found many skilful boys, so I want to keep them to help them also in football, Erakor Golden Star, to keep them in the team, to work and lift the village football team.”

The story of Mr. Toukoune shows that a dream can start as a small idea, but with determination, hard work and patience, it can become a reality when a person decides to step out of their comfort zone.

“The more we complain, the more we sit back and depend more on people or government. The more we depend, the more time-consuming it is. So instead of depending, like me, I came out of my comfort zone in 2021, and I ended up like this.”

The 26-year-old encourages others to dream big, start small, work hard and never give up, because one day, their idea can also become a reality.