Pegi Mbuik, 27 years old is a person with disabilities in Suelain village, Lobalain sub-district, Rote Ndao Regency. Pegi is the second of 3 children born to Julius Mbuik and Since Mbuik.

After graduating from SMK 1 Lelain, Pegi, who took the Mechanical Engineering program, decided to fill his time by opening a motorcycle repair shop. However, in 2019 he had to close the workshop due to a pinched nerve that severely limited his leg movement. His condition worsened so much to the point that his family had to take him to Bali for further treatment but it was ineffective. This condition has caused Pegi to be paralyzed until now.

His paralysis limited his ability to do many things. He had to be carried to move around. This made him sad, particularly because he could no longer run his business, resulting in a loss of income.

Not wanting to be in sadness for too long, Pegi thought of ways to remain productive and earn money despite not being able to walk on his own.

“Even if I can't move, I have plenty of time. I don't want to just sit and do nothing. My legs may be immobile but my hands are still capable, so there must be something I can accomplish,” Pegi said.

“Utilizing his knowledge of mechanical engineering, Pegi decided to explore the field of electronic service. He expanded his knowledge independently through the internet.

“If I work in a workshop I can't just sit down, but if I fix electronics I can do it while sitting,”

As the only electronic repair service provider in Suelain and its surrounding area, he received numerous requests for repairs. However, many are rejected due to a lack of sufficient equipment.

In 2024, TLM Foundation through the Village Community Economic Development program held an Entrepreneurial Empowerment program in Suelain village. This program was delivered through training and in kind assistance. Pegi with his business that has been running was identified as eligible to receive in kind assistance to develop his business.

Pegi received electronic service tools in the form of solder (tin melter), multitester (electric current test tool), steam solder (steam heater) and tin plunger. With the availability of these tools, Pegi can now repair various types of damage to electronic goods. The demand for services has increased so much that he now employs a cousin to help him lift and move heavy items.

As more and more requests for electronic repairs came in, Pegi was motivated to broaden his business to mobile phone repair service.

“Since everyone relies on cell phones these days, I figured it would be beneficial to learn how to repair them,” Pegi then took an online cell phone service course to strengthen his skills.

Pegi feels grateful because with his limitations, he is still a productive person and can be financially independent. Pegi can earn up to Rp. 1,700,000/month. Pegi uses this income to support his family. While also saving a portion to acquire the necessary service equipment that is still unavailable.

Pegi is a person with a disability who is fiercely determined to maximize his abilities. Pegi proves that his limitations do not hinder his capacity to succeed in business. He shows that empowering people with disabilities through motivation to build self-confidence and providing assistance to support businesses can improve their quality of life economically and socially.