Meet Nguyen Thi Thuy, a determined 30-year-old currently navigating the world with significant visual impairment, able only to distinguish between light and dark. Tragically, both Thuy and her sibling were born with congenital vision impairment, a shared challenge that has shaped their lives. Today, Thuy channels her resilience and dedication into her work at the massage studio run by the National Training and Rehab Center for the Vietnamese Blind (NTRC), where she has built over two years of valuable experience in the profession.
Driven by a thirst for growth and a commitment to her clients, Thuy eagerly joined our co-hosted training course between Omamori Spa and the NTRC in December 2024. Her expectations are clear: to absorb new massage techniques that will better cater to the diverse needs of her clientele and, in turn, improve her income. This proactive approach underscores her dedication to her craft and her desire to excel.
Currently, Thuy earns a steady 60,000 VND per hour, a testament to her skill and dedication. On average, she also receives around 50,000 VND in tips per day, further contributing to her financial stability. Recognizing the importance of her well-being, the NTRC provides her with a significant 500,000 VND monthly food allowance and free accommodation, creating a supportive environment for her to thrive.
Working in a professional setting, Thuy has unfortunately encountered rare instances of inappropriate requests from clients – about 1 in 50. In these challenging situations, she handles herself with remarkable professionalism and clarity, firmly communicating that she operates with integrity and does not accept any misconduct. This unwavering stance protects her well-being and upholds the dignity of her profession.
Thuy has made a considered decision not to offer in-home massage services. Her visual impairment presents significant logistical hurdles, from navigating transportation platforms to ensuring safe guidance upon arrival. Furthermore, her expertise lies in massage techniques performed on proper equipment, making the often-unpredictable conditions of home environments unsuitable for her practice. However, she remains open-minded, stating that if home massage could guarantee a stable and safe income, she would be willing to give it further thought.
Her dedication to her profession and her unwavering commitment to professionalism serve as an inspiration to us all, highlighting the potential for independence and success that can be achieved with determination and the right support.
