Taxi services are an important
mode of transportation in any big city. But what do you do in an area with an
abundance of people who do not speak English and cannot communicate with
drivers?
Hill Tribe Transportation has fixed that situation on the West
Side.
Kyaw Kyee, a Burmese refugee who moved to
the area four years ago, started Hill Tribe Transportation that refugees can
use without any language barriers holding them back.
Kyee started the business six
months ago and it has grown in popularity on the West Side. Hill Side covers
many areas such as Tonawanda, Buffalo State College, University of Buffalo and
even places in Canada. Also, organizations such as the International Institute
of Buffalo and Jericho Road Ministries are using this service to transport
their clients to anything from doctor’s appointments to medical emergencies if
they arise.
“The refugees
don't speak English and of course we speak English and we speak their language,”
said Kyee, owner of Hill Tribe Transportation. “We know how to knock on their
door and sometimes find them.”
“It provides a service that they need in order
for refugees to live their life ahead,” said Eva Hassett, executive
director for the International Institute of Buffalo.
Kyee’s success as a
successful business owner on the West Side has provided inspiration for others
trying to start businesses in the area.
“He has shown us that you can
start a successful business from nothing,” said Hassett. “It’s a great example for all of us that the
American dream is possible and I think that’s powerful not for just the West
side but for everyone.” Story by Max
Borsuk and Maria Yankova
