My name is Rufen, and I am currently 43 years old. I own and operate a clothing store in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, a lively and culturally rich area. I consider myself a regular person living an ordinary life, yet it has certainly not been free from obstacles. In 2016, I was diagnosed with HIV during a routine health check-up. The news hit me like a ton of bricks, as if I had been suddenly plunged into a deep, dark abyss. I felt isolated and utterly helpless.
Time did have a healing effect, and with the support of the community of people living with HIV (PLHIV), I slowly started to regain my footing and find my way back to life. I gradually came to the realization that despite my diagnosis, there was still hope and a future worth fighting for. Determined to make the best of my situation, I resolved to dedicate all my energy to my work, striving to maintain a decent standard of living not only for myself but also for my family. To further secure the future, I enrolled in the government-run Social Security Scheme, which guarantees a basic income in case I am unable to work one day.
As a store owner, I've encountered numerous business challenges in recent years, particularly with the surge of e-commerce impacting virtually all types of stores. I was aware of the importance of staying competitive in the digital age, I decided to learn how to create short videos showcasing my products and post them on Douyin to attract customers. However, it quickly became apparent that refining my video production skills and deepening my understanding of online business strategies were crucial for the sustained success and growth of my business.
Through the LGBTIQ+ community, I discovered that the Women's Network Against AIDS-China, supported by the ILO, offers training programs on digital skills and online entrepreneurship specifically for people living with HIV who face multiple challenges. As a PLHIV within the LGBTIQ+ community, I met the criteria for participation. Without any hesitation, I decided to temporarily close my shop and fully dedicate myself to the intensive three-day training workshop.
The training was eye-opening and inspiring. During the training, I acquired a wide range of new skills, including video shooting, live streaming selling, and the nuances of being a live streaming selling host etc. These skills were precisely what I needed to further my business endeavours.
I started creating high quality short videos and street photography pieces to draw in followers and potential customers on Douyin. Yet, despite my efforts, I struggled to find the balance between conveying information and captivating audiences. Seeking guidance, I participated in the online coaching sessions offered by the ILO and WNAC as follow-up support after the face-to-face training. During these sessions, participants shared their short videos for constructive discussion and feedback. The expert insights I received were that: I should focus on producing videos that cater to consumers' needs. This revelation inspired a shift in my video-making approach. Instead of prioritizing my personal preferences, I began tailoring my content to capture the interests of consumers and create videos that would resonate with them.
To broaden my audience reach, I have taken part in outdoor activities popular among older generations, such as roadside karaoke and square dancing. I even attended a senior citizens' party to showcase my Douyin videos, and the response was positive. This approach has not only helped me gain more followers but has also translated into increased visits to my store and an increase in sales of my clothing products. In just three months since the training, I have seen a 500% surge in my Douyin follower count, significantly expanding my outreach and market. Many of these new local followers have visited my store and made purchases, resulting in a 20% increase in my sales.
I feel confident on video shooting now and empowered to support my family. I have realized that I am a valuable member of society. I know WNAC, in collaboration with the ILO, will provide an advanced course on digital skills and online entrepreneurship, I will attend it to continuously improve my skills.
Thoughts about my HIV status can still cause anxiety at times, creating videos and communicating with my followers on Douyin has proven to be a therapeutic experience. The process brings happiness into my life and adds a newfound sense of brightness and joy to my days.
The ILO is dedicated to ensuring decent work for all. Through a range of programs and initiatives, the organization strives to equip vulnerable groups with the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities to lead fulfilling and self-sufficient lives.
