I sat down with the team in Thailand to brainstorm how we might help generate income for migrant communities at the border, the communities they serve every day. They had SO many ideas. But their favorite idea was fishing poles!
That was a new one to me, but it made sense. Many migrants will use nets to catch fish out in a boat but if the conditions are bad, this means no fishing and no food or income.
Fishing poles would remedy the situation, allowing fishermen to fish from land – no matter the conditions.
Enter Jaroon, a local fisherman who was the first to receive a fishing pole. Talking with Jaroon and being able to provide this pole to him was such a joy!
“Normally I use a boat and net, but if the conditions do not allow, now I can go catch fish and squid from the dock!” said Jaroon as he cast his new pole into the sea.
“Next time you come, you eat for free!” Jaroon smiled, pointing at a pile of muscles he caught that morning.
Meet Jon!
Hello hello! My name is Jon Atwell and I’m the Roving Correspondent at Alight. So much of what I do involves going to program sites and spending time with my colleagues around the world, and the people we serve. I get to capture photos, create video, and share stories of the incredible people I meet. And, I’ve gotten the chance to do the doable with many of our teams in many places. This time around, I’m so excited to tell you about our incredible team in Thailand!
