FROM LEMON TREE PREMIER, SECTOR 29, GURGAON

"I WANT TO BE BECOME A SUPERVISOR"

                                

What is your ambition? I asked.

There was no hesitation; the answer came quickly.

"I want to become a supervisor".

3.8ft tall, Moradabad born Parvez Alam (24) is very clear on his short term aim. I was quite surprised and taken aback at his confidence. That day, I was not in my elements because of food poisoning. Having said that, a few minutes with Parvez gave me so much energy.

"I am told, a new Lemon Tree Hotel will be ready next year in Sector 16, Gurgaon. This hotel will be run completely by personnel with Speech and Hearing Impairment or Down Syndrome . As and when the hotel is ready, I think I also will be ready to work there as their Supervisor", says Parvez.

Yes, his confidence is taller than the Qutub Minar . The interaction with him has been a revelation for me.

12th pass Parvez has been with the Lemon Tree family since September 2013. Presently, he is deputed at Lemon Tree Premier at Sector 29 ,Gurgaon.

"I tried my best to get a job; but got rejected everywhere; I was very frustrated  those days; but now, I am very happy here; Vipul Sir supports me very much, for that matter help comes from all quarters at the workplace. Earlier, when people made fun of me, I used to take it to my heart; but not any more. This job has taught me to remain very positive. Now I know that my life is in my hands; and to prove myself, I have to work hard" says Parvez, who happens to be one important link of the Housekeeping team that takes care of the public area of this hotel.

His father is a businessman in Delhi, elder sister is married; younger brother and younger sister are studying at Moradabad. Both younger siblings live with his mom in his native place.

What is the change in you after joining this hotel? I asked.

"After joining this hotel my English has improved; I am more confident now. I have started to believe that  I too can get ahead in my life, by being successful in this industry" answered Parvez.

At 7.00 am, he reports for duty and by 5.00 pm he will sign off. He stays at the quarters provided by the hotel. Sometimes, he will get dropped by one of the co- workers who also head for the hotel accommodation. Or else, he will travel by bus.

So, what you will do in the evening hours? I asked.

I will read the "Times of India" newspaper; I do have a laptop. I am now acquiring more computer skills. I will listen to music".

Salman Khan is his favourite hero, though he is not a hardcore movie fan. He likes listening to Kishore Kumar's songs.

Every time I visit a Lemon Tree hotel, I come back inspired. What I found most inspiring is that they have the intention to provide livelihood and self respect for people with  Speech and Hearing Impairment - and they are aggressively pursuing that objctive.  

Brilliant idea ...isn't it ?

Text and Pictures: R Kesava Mallia in Gurgaon