Shukur was born in November, 1989, but does not know the exact date (neither do his parents). His mother currently works at a textile mill and is separated from his fathers, and architect. Before Shukur’s mother could not afford to keep Shukur and his siblings, his mother cared for them. He attended school through 5th grade and can read and write, a little. He works as a domestic servant on a river boat. He wants to be an airplane pilot when he grows up, but doesn’t think he ever will be.
Life Story: Esteban Menčndez
Esteban Menčndez is a child laborer who works in banana fields. He is one of an estimated 69,000 child laborers between 10 and 14 years old in his country. For two years, he has bounded up 15-foot banana plants. He works for Mr. Noboa, who happens to be the richest man in the country. Esteban’s 2 brothers also work with him. Employees of Mr. Noboa’s company, including Esteban’s family, united to hold a standoff. It was violent. Two people who refused to move from the entrance gate were wounded by guards who shot them. The next day, guards encountered the rebelling employees and shot seven more people, including Esteban’s father, Bernabč Menčndez and a police officer. Due to the massive pressure that was put on the banana company, they promised to improve medical services, provide masks, gloves, and other equiptment and settle complaints about unpaid overtime wages. The workers are paid between six and seven hours a day, which is within the minimum wage. If it weren’t for Mr. Noboa’s campaign for president or wealth, the unfair treatment of the laborers would have gone unnoticed.
Shukur works as a domestic servant. Find out more about domestic service at this page.
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