In Phek, Nagaland, a young entrepreneur named Toyi Swuro is changing the way people see work. At just 29 years old, Toyi is the founder of Craft Gallery, a leather crafting business that not only supports his family but also provides affordable shoe repairs and helps underprivileged members of his community. His journey from a humble background to becoming a successful cobbler is a story of resilience, compassion, and a deep belief in the dignity of labor.
Early Life: Growing Up in Humble Circumstances
Toyi grew up as the eldest of five siblings in Phuhgi village, Phek. His father worked as a policeman, but financial hardships were part of their daily life. As the oldest child, Toyi felt the responsibility to help provide for his family from a young age. He saw firsthand how difficult it was for his father to meet the family’s needs, and this sparked in him a desire to become self-reliant.
After completing his schooling, Toyi went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Arts from Phek Government College. However, as he moved through his education, he became acutely aware of the social stigma associated with manual labor jobs, like cobbling, in his community. These professions were often looked down upon, and many young people sought government jobs, believing they were the only way to gain respect.
But Toyi saw things differently. He believed that dignity lies in all work, no matter how society views it, and that there was pride to be found in skilled manual labor.
Launching Craft Gallery: Turning a Passion into a Business
In 2018, with just ₹3,000 and a few basic tools, Toyi decided to follow his passion for leatherwork. He established Craft Gallery, initially operating out of his bedroom. His goal was not just to make a living, but to challenge societal norms and show his community that there was value in every profession, including cobbling.
Toyi began by repairing shoes for local children, many of whom could not afford new footwear. Often, he would provide these services for free. Word spread quickly about his skill and generosity, and soon more and more people came to him for repairs and custom-made leather goods. As his business grew, so did his dream of making Craft Gallery a place of learning and opportunity for others.
Overcoming Challenges: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Toyi’s path to success wasn’t easy. In February 2021, a devastating fire destroyed his workshop, along with all his equipment and materials. “All my machinery and hard work were burned down to ashes,” he recalls. It was a heartbreaking setback, but Toyi’s determination remained unshaken.
With the support of his community, local NGOs, and friends, he was able to rebuild his workshop within just three months. Toyi’s resilience in the face of adversity is a reflection of his unbreakable spirit. Despite the financial struggles that sometimes come with running a small business, Toyi never gave up. He continued to repair around 30 pairs of shoes daily, and his dedication earned him the respect and admiration of his community.
Promoting the Dignity of Labor: Changing Perceptions
One of Toyi’s key missions is to challenge the stigma around manual labor. He often speaks about how society undervalues jobs like cobbling, and how young people are often pushed toward white-collar jobs. “We Nagas are so reluctant in associating ourselves with menial labor work,” he says, explaining that many people believe only government jobs or office work are worthy of respect.
But through Craft Gallery, Toyi is changing that narrative. He employs local youth, especially during school holidays, teaching them valuable skills in leather crafting. This initiative not only provides them with practical work experience but also helps them see that there is pride in every form of work, no matter how simple it may seem. He hopes that by embracing such professions, young people will realize that they, too, can create a sustainable livelihood and contribute meaningfully to society.
Giving Back: Social Responsibility at the Heart of His Business
Beyond running a successful business, Toyi has always prioritized giving back to his community. He offers affordable and, in many cases, free repairs to students and those who cannot afford to pay. His belief in helping the less fortunate stems from his own experiences growing up in a financially constrained family. For him, no child should have to go to school with worn-out shoes, and no one should be ashamed to seek help when they need it.
His work is a reflection of his compassion and commitment to social responsibility, earning him the admiration of both customers and community members. In recognition of his efforts, Toyi was awarded the First Northeast Unsung Heroes Red Carpet Social Award in 2019, a well-deserved acknowledgment of his dedication to entrepreneurship and service.
Looking Ahead: Expanding His Vision for Craft Gallery
Toyi’s success with Craft Gallery has inspired him to dream even bigger. He hopes to expand his business in the coming years and envisions opening a larger company that could employ hundreds of youth from his community. His long-term goal is to continue promoting self-reliance, teaching valuable trade skills, and changing the way manual labor is perceived in Nagaland.
Toyi’s story serves as a reminder that success can come from the most unexpected places, and that no job is too small or unimportant if it brings dignity and helps others. His journey is a source of inspiration for many in Nagaland and beyond, showing that with hard work, resilience, and a heart for service, anyone can make a lasting impact.
