The story of Wayan
“The story of Wayan”
At Volunteer Programs Bali we have a number of great staff working for us. One of those staff members is Wayan, who has been with us for almost a year now. Wayan is working as a driver for Volunteer Programs Bali and sometimes he helps us with our classes as well. Born in Ubud and currently 40 years old Wayan has seen many changes in Ubud and Bali over the years.
When Wayan was young there was no electricity yet in Ubud and for a lot of people doing things like reading a book was difficult. Light at night was done through candles and coconut lamps. Wayan began working when he was 8 years old by making handicrafts and toys. As he went through school he moved further into arts and crafts and was making handicrafts which he could sell to the many tourists that came to Bali. In this way he could earn a small income that could help him and his family to continue his education.
Being the head of the family, Wayan is a busy man and has a lot of responsibilities. As a member of the local community he has to attend every ceremony and being a respected member asks for a lot of effort and time. Besides this he still continues to make arts and crafts at home and sometimes he also works in the rice fields to help his father.
For Wayan being a part of the Volunteer Programs Bali family has been great. He has been able to grow confidence in speaking English with the volunteers of VP Bali. Wayan believes that being able to speak English is very important for the future of the Balinese children as Bali has grown very big in tourism. Wayan has seen the way Bali has developed and therefore knows the importance of education and English skills to increase job opportunities.
For Wayan being a part of the Volunteer Programs Bali family has been great. He has been able to grow confidence in speaking English with the volunteers of VP Bali. Wayan believes that being able to speak English is very important for the future of the Balinese children as Bali has grown very big in tourism. Wayan has seen the way Bali has developed and therefore knows the importance of education and English skills to increase job opportunities.
Before working with Volunteer Programs Bali Wayan didn’t speak much English and wasn’t confident to speak English with foreigners. By working with us and being a part of our VP Bali family, Wayan has the chance to speak a lot more of the English language than he normally would. Being around a lot of people from overseas every day, he can practice his English skills. Wayan is a great person to have on our Volunteer Programs Bali team.
All of the Balinese children in our programs, our volunteers and local staff members find Wayan a joy to have around and we all admire the hard work that he does for his family, community and our local organization!
