Cobbler Uncle and Auntie

Armed with his trusty toolbox and jars of glue, he mend shoes in his makeshift stand by the staircase amid the bustling neighborhood of Clementi. This is the story of Uncle Paul and his wife, Auntie Michelle, who have been providing cobbler service for close to three decades.

The couple has been setting up makeshift stands in Singapore since 1981, where the first one was at Jurong East Central. With this service, he was able to sustain his humble family of three and put his daughter through proper education. Despite earning minimum income, they found fulfillment and joy through this service.

"Every shoe has a value in it. No matter how nice, smelly or dirty it is, I will mend it to the best of my ability, as part of my service to the community." - Uncle Paul

People these days can afford a new pair of shoes easily, yet it will never be the same as the old one. As the saying goes: "As comfortable as an old shoe"; every shoe tell a story. Those who bring their shoes to the cobbler treasure that sentimental value that holds within. It doesn't matter if it cost hundred over dollars or just a few dollars, each shoe holds a different meaning to each individual that could never be replaced.

Therefore, Uncle Paul and Auntie Michelle are there to ensure that this sentimental values are preserved. They believe that what they are doing is a meaningful service to the community. And they intended to uphold this belief as long as they can.

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