Metta Thippawong

Now a Training and Development Coordinator at our Vientiane, Laos office, Metta began as an operator in December of 2003. Stricken with polio as a child, she never thought she would have the opportunities that she has at DDD.

I was born in northern Laos. When I was a child I got polio. During that time they didn't have any medicine to prevent this disease in my province. My legs couldn't move. My parents heard about the National Rehabilitation Center in Vientiane, so they decided to move. In Vientiane, I practiced so that I can move and learned how to walk with crutches.

After some time my parents had some money to pay for school. It was a difficult time for me because my whole life was very dependent on my parents and my family was worried about my future. My disability made me feel like I was a helpless person, a burden for my family. I thought that no one in society or any company will hire me. During that time life was really meaningless for me.

But then I heard about DDD. Fortunately I got a job at DDD. I was really happy because I have never thought that I would have a chance like this. When I first joined DDD my typing speed was very slow and my computer skills were not good. I didn't have any confidence to talk and share ideas but my job with DDD has significantly changed my whole life. This job changed me into a more confident person in the sense that not only I can help myself, but also help others. I have learned to speak up for myself. I feel more like a person. Now my family does not worry about me and my future anymore.

I know that DDD can and will help me to realize my dream. I have learned a lot from DDD and am growing each day. I have improved my computer skills, my English, and other skills like organizational management. I have been working with DDD for 5.5 years. I started my career as an Operator and now I'm working in the role of Training and Development Coordinator. I have become more mature in the way I think and behave. I have found my life purpose. Plus I have learned to managed a group of people and working with people and help them to grow. I want them to have a chance like me because for me if without DDD I cant imagine how my life would be. So I would like other disadvantage people to have a chance to improve and grow.