In light of facing adversity, a laid off sugar worker has utilized the resources present around him in order to create a new livelihood for himself and his family. Afzal Deendial, a former GUYSUCO worker, had served the institution with hard work and dedication for some 21 years before he was laid off when the Enmore estate was abruptly closed. Instead of allowing this disappointment to burden or frustrate him, Deendial took it upon himself to find a new means of income.
In an effort to maintain his economic viability, Deendial ventured into the fields of barbering and farming. He established the ‘Classy Touch Barber Shop’, which is
Ms Genevieve Allen and Afzal Deendial (center) surrounded by memebers of the RDC
located at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara where he lives with his family. His cash crop farm is also located in this area. “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,” the ambitious man stated.
However, Deendial did not stop at that, the laid off sugar worker has been pursuing ways in which he can improve and expand his businesses. The man had heard about the Self Reliance Business Workshops for women and as such approached the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Region Four with hopes to join the workshops. He made a simple request of being allowed to take part in the workshop so as to attain knowledge and benefit from some business related training. He noted that all he wanted was the little ‘know how’ on how to get started officially and tips on running the business.
Deendial humble request was granted and he elatedly expressed gratitude to not only the First Lady of Guyana Mrs. Sandra Granger, but also to the Regional Chairman, Ms. Genevieve Allen for initiating the workshops and allowing him to be a part of it. “I will use this training to further grow my barber shop and cash crop farm as hopefully it may even create employment for others,” a thankful Deendial stated.