LOOK at the capabilities and not the disabilities of a disabled person.
This is the plea of Shailendra Prakash to the people of Fiji, especially those in the employment sector.
Mr Prakash’s disability deals with both his hands which are deformed but that has not limited him from advancing in his studies and later a career as a small business operator.
With a degree in computer science and information system from the University of the South Pacific, Mr Prakash owns and operates a business which specialises in web designing, programming, computer repairs and video shooting.
Mr Prakash said his degree gave him another platform to take another step and that was starting up his own business.
“Initially, people were hesitant; they were underestimating me. But when I could deliver what was required of me, the mind-set of people started changing.
“I got supermarkets, pharmacy, doctors, spare part industry using my software for so many years without any issues,” he said.
Mr Prakash said his computer repairs clients appreciated the quality of work he delivered.
“I do lot of video shooting by myself at funerals, weddings, parties and most of my clients are from overseas.”
He said the most important part in coming to mainstream work was the chance given to him by Charles of Pro System Pacific Ltd.
“He gave me the opportunity as a trainee system analyst/programmer in his business.
“That was the turning point in my life. I would urge business houses, please give opportunity to people with disabilities … you will be putting the life of that person in the right direction.”
He said now when he looked at his abilities and what he could do and was doing without any major issues, he didn’t see his disability.
“I can repair computers, do video shooting in the field, edit it and deliver DVD as any other normal person would. I develop business applications that big business houses use in Fiji without any issues and hesitation.
“I can drive any car, be it manual or automatic without any modification. I have a very happy family, a pretty understanding normal wife and a son with my mum staying with me, I am providing for them.”
Mr Prakash said life had been good for him and he had invested in few real estates with his taxi business doing pretty well.
“So you tell me where is my disability in contrast to what I have achieved and can do?
“When I look at my ability, my disability is nowhere to be seen … I focus on what I can do, not on what I can’t do. Even a normal person can’t do everything, you can say they are disabled in that perspective.
“The key is positive thinking.”
Mr Prakash had initially set up office in 2010 in Nabua, then moved to Procera House in Waimanu Rd in Suva in 2011.
“People can always contact me on fijixzone@live.com or website FijiXzone.com and call me on 9950247,” he said.
