“Where there is a will, there is a way.” JAFFAR RATHER proved this phrase very well..
His journey motivates many and inspires to keep persevering till success. With merely Rs 100 in his pocket, Jaffar moved to Srinagar at the age of 16. Initially in Srinagar, he was placed at a house as a care-taker.which ultimately translated to domestic help. While working there, he requested them to place him in the government sector and as luck would have it, he got enrolled into ITI (industrial training institute), Srinagar to take training in plumbing. He underwent the training for 2 years (from 1996-1998).
Now Mashallah after being in this field for 18 years now, I have a team of 15 workers including me and for most of our projects work cost is above 15000 Rs. We also have a group of carpenters, electricians and masons who if the customer requires/prefers are recommended by us as co-ordinated group work is close to perfection, Jaffar added.
When asked about his idea of starting a You Tube Channel, Jaffar replied that, “I always had a knack for new things. And I wanted to utilize my time to the fullest. Even when I was working in households, I would draw sketches in my free time or make some decorative pieces from old waste items as well as school projects for the kids there. As computers were gaining popularity in almost every sphere, I started taking interest in them and got an old computer and over a period of time I learned this art without any formal training ( just some help from friends and acquaintances). Once I got familiarized with things, I purchased my own laptop which helped me a lot in my work as I used to show customers the drawings (in 3d view) of the work so that they would get an idea of/visualize the final look of the project. And just by fiddling with the apps and internet I came to know about Youtube channels which made me create my very own channel (JK plumbing). Although amateurish right now, it gives an insight to the work I have done and am capable of doing. People can also take design ideas from the videos uploaded on the channel.”
What advice would you give to other UNEMPLOYED/UNEDUCATED youth?
I can’t stress the importance of education enough. I had to struggle to reach the place where I am today. So those around who have the means and opportunities to pursue education should avail them and not compromise in this sphere. As I didn’t get a chance to complete even my schooling, I have a hard time understanding the language (English) at times when I try to familiarize myself with the upcoming technologies on the web. Besides this being a limitation, I am able to do anything and everything.
And also have confidence in self. Be willing to work hard and give your best as this moment is all we have . Make the most of whatever comes your way.
