Tinkering with bicycles and the future

Daniel Grmay (33) is from Eritrea and has lived in the Netherlands for over ten years. Finding a suitable job with a future wasn't easy. But now he enjoys working at the bicycle repair shop Bike Totaal Paul Willemsen in Den Hoorn. "I'm learning a lot here, and I'm eager to progress."

"I worked for more than ten companies, often without a contract. Sometimes I got a seven-month contract. But it was never really suitable work." Daniel did all sorts of jobs: deliveries for Flink, deep cleaning cars, working in warehouses, production, and logistics. He also tried to earn a living as a photographer and videographer. He taught himself how to do this via YouTube. "That was difficult and stressful, because I didn't have enough experience."

In 2021 Daniel joined Werkse! Right. He worked at various work-study companies. But finding the right fit remained challenging. Eventually, Daniel was able to enroll in a training program to become a bicycle mechanic at The Next Skill. The Next Skill is an initiative that provides people with practical training, improving their chances in the job market. With the help of The Next Skill, Daniel found a job at Bike Totaal Paul Willemsen in Den Hoorn, where he completed an internship. "I enjoy doing technical work." And so, Daniel started working at the bicycle repair shop without any experience.

Repairing bicycles
And with success, because he's been working here for two months. "I knew nothing about bicycles, but I've learned everything here. I repair rear tires, front tires, pedals, saddles, and brakes. I haven't done electric bikes yet, but I want to learn." Daniel loves challenges. "I ask for difficult jobs, not just the easy ones. Gears on racing bikes, for example, that's a real challenge. Luckily, I get help when I need it."

Enthusiastic and handy
Paul Willemsen, Daniel's owner and employer, says: “As a team, we are happy with Daniel. The internship was well-organized and we had good contact with him. Werkse!It's sometimes difficult to find new staff in our industry. This internship is an easy way to meet people who are interested in the profession. During the internship, you get to know each other better. It's essentially a kind of introductory period. This way, you can see if there's a click and if the collaboration works well. Daniel is really committed. He's enthusiastic, motivated, and eager to learn. He's also handy and learns assembly quickly. These are great qualities. That's why we wanted to continue with him after the internship. There's still a lot to learn in this profession, and we hope to work with Daniel for a long time to come so he can continue to develop.

Dreams and advice
Daniel has big dreams. "If I had a lot of money, I'd open a restaurant. Maybe in Eritrea. But I want to continue here in the Netherlands." He's also happy to give advice to others. "I've had many jobs, so I know what's important. Think carefully about your work: what does it mean to you? What are you good at? Do something that truly suits you and that you can continue doing. My nephew is a carpenter—that's a profession you can do anywhere, even when you're older. Like hairdressing, for example."

Grateful and positive
Daniel enjoys building bikes – but also working with colleagues and the atmosphere at work. "Yes, it's good here. I can ask anything. I'm improving my Dutch by asking what things mean." He's happy with his job at the bike shop and his life in the Netherlands. "It used to be tough in Eritrea. In Eritrea, I had to walk three hours for water, but here you just drink it from the tap. Everything is different, but I'm happy to be here."