A New Job for Jairo
Jairo is 15 years old and lives in Rincon, Bonaire. He has just started a part-time job at a small snack bar near his school. He works on Wednesday and Friday afternoons, and every Saturday. He helps with cleaning tables, taking orders, and sometimes even making fries when it’s not too busy.
At first, Jairo was nervous. He had never worked with customers before. But after a few days, he started to enjoy it. “Most people are really friendly,” he says. “I like it when someone says thank you or smiles at me.”
Jairo earns $10 an hour, which he saves to buy a new bike. His old one broke last month, and walking everywhere in the sun isn’t fun. He also gives part of his money to his grandmother, who lives with them.
Working at the snack bar has taught Jairo many things. He’s learned how to speak clearly, how to stay calm when it’s busy, and how to work with adults. His boss says he’s doing a great job.
“I’m tired at the end of the day,” says Jairo, “but I feel proud. I’m learning new things every week, and I think this will help me when I’m older.”