Hkabawng Nan Seng is originally from Nant Yan village in Kachin State, where armed clashes between the Tatmadaw and the Kachin Independence Army are common. As a result of the fighting, the traditional livelihoods of many in her village have been disrupted.
Looking for new opportunities, she heard about the Aung Myin Hmu training centre through an information pamphlet distributed at her school for people with disabilities. She was interested to find work in the garment industry and decided to join the training. After completing the course, she was able to find a job in a factory in Yangon. “I feel I am so lucky to have a chance to train at Aung Myin Hmu. I have a disability, so I never thought that I would get a job in a big garment factory like this.”
It was not easy working in a garment factory but Hkabawng Nan Seng has persevered. Her daily routine begins at 6:00 AM so that she can get to the factory for the 7:30 AM start time. Because of her disability, she finds it hard to live in the hostel provided by her employer. “As I am disabled, it is difficult for me to take a shower together in a group within the time available. So, I have to stay in a hostel that I pay for with my own money.”
Despite the challenges she faces, Hkabawng Nan Seng is very proud of her job as a sewing machine operator in Hlaing Thar Yar. She earns the same amount as the other workers, with a daily wage of MMK 4,800 (USD 3.30) and MMK 1,200 in overtime pay. “Compared to those who did not receive training, I can perform better thanks to Aung Myin Hmu Training Centre.”
