100-year-old veteran on May Day: it unites people through creative idea of labour
Aleksandr Shvantstein from Vitebsk has recently celebrated his 100th birthday, but the man still has a sharp mind, optimism and thirst for life. His favourite profession is a great help: until now, Aleksandr is engaged into the repair of all sort of household appliances. For many years, he worked as chief mechanic in the garment industry, and has recently repaired a sewing machine. The man laughs that his hands remember how to work, and his mind is clear. He always loved and knew how to work.
Aleksandr Shvantstein believes it was a wise decision to revive the former glory of Labour Day in Belarus. “Work always makes people better. It sets the right mood, unites people for creation of something good, necessary, and constructive. I have always worked tirelessly – starting my career as the chief mechanic at the Pobeda sewing artel and later at sewing factory No. 2 (now known as Vitebchanka). Before my retirement, I was employed at vocational school No. 29. Of course, I participated in the Labour Day demonstrations, and I well remember how many people they brought together in Vitebsk. For our family, for example, the celebration of May Day has an intimate sense: my daughter Maya was born on May 1st,” the veteran smiled.
