A visually impaired woman and her husband with cerebral palsy have opened a small restaurant in Thimphu, demonstrating that disabilities need not hinder business success. Their venture aims to encourage other differently-abled individuals to create their own economic opportunities.
Sonam Yangchen, 36, who has been blind since birth, manages the day-to-day operations of the restaurant. Her husband Kinzang Jamtsho, 35, works at the Disabled People’s Organization of Bhutan while supporting their business endeavor.
Each morning at 8 AM, Kinzang carefully guides Sonam to the restaurant before heading to his own job. The couple has hired two assistants to help run the establishment.
“We wanted to show that people with disabilities can start businesses and become self-reliant,” Sonam explained. “By taking this step, we hope to empower others to follow our lead.”
Kinzang highlighted the employment challenges faced by disabled individuals: “Government jobs often have qualification requirements we can’t meet, and private employers are hesitant to hire us. That’s why running our own business is so crucial.”
Despite the obstacles they face, the couple remains committed to hard work. If their restaurant proves successful, they plan to expand the business in the future.
Their story serves as an inspiring example of how determination and entrepreneurship can create opportunities, even in the face of significant challenges.
