RAÍZES | CURTA-DOCUMENTÁRIO

Summary

This transcript provides an insightful and personal glimpse into the lives of market vendors who have spent decades working in the feira (market). Bert Souza de Oliveira, who has been part of the feira for over 5 years, and Simoni, who was born into the business, share their experiences. They discuss the importance of community, the unique relationships with customers, and the challenges of working in the feira. Their stories highlight the hard work, dedication, and passion required to thrive in this environment, while also reflecting on the changes in the market over time.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bert Souza de Oliveira has been working at the market for 5 years, and despite challenges, he values the work for the lessons it brings and the sense of community it fosters.
• 😀 The market is described as a second home, with people forming close, almost family-like relationships with customers.
• 😀 Simoni, another market worker, shares that her family has been in the market business for generations, and she feels deeply connected to the customers, some of whom are considered friends rather than just clients.
• 😀 The market provides a sense of support and solidarity among vendors, even in difficult times, such as when Bert’s truck broke down and other vendors helped him out.
• 😀 Simoni recalls an emotional story of helping a man who was struggling after losing his wife. Through cooking tips, they formed a lasting friendship.
• 😀 Despite being competitors, market vendors often help each other in times of need, emphasizing the strong sense of community and mutual support.
• 😀 Bert appreciates the independence the market work provides, even though it requires early mornings and hard work, and he finds satisfaction in helping people directly.
• 😀 The market is also a space where people from various backgrounds and nationalities come together, enhancing the cultural diversity of the experience.
• 😀 The market’s charm lies in its fresh products and specialty foods like the famous pastel (fried pastry) and sugar cane juice, which keep loyal customers coming back.
• 😀 While the pandemic led to a surge in market visitors, the industry faces challenges from supermarkets and the increasing cost of goods, which has affected foot traffic.
• 😀 Bert and Simoni stress that working in the market isn’t just about making money; it's about passion and a genuine love for the work and the people they interact with every day.

Q & A

What motivates Bert to continue working in the market despite challenges?

Bert is motivated by his passion for the work and the sense of fulfillment it brings. He emphasizes that working at the market isn't just for the money, but because he genuinely enjoys it and finds purpose in the community aspect of it.

How does Bert feel about his work in the market compared to other jobs?

Bert feels that working at the market has shaped him into a responsible person. He values the early hours and the work ethic it instills in him, finding that no other job can offer him the same sense of satisfaction and connection.

How does Simoni describe her relationship with customers at the market?

Simoni describes her relationship with customers as personal and long-lasting. Some customers have become more like friends, and she often plays a role similar to a psychologist, listening to their problems and offering advice, forming close bonds over time.

What does Simoni mean when she says she 'was born a box of apples'?

Simoni uses the phrase 'born a box of apples' to express how deeply ingrained the market business is in her life. It highlights the fact that she has been involved in the market since childhood, with her family's history in the business.

How has the market experience affected Simoni's personal life?

The market has significantly shaped Simoni's life, allowing her to develop deep, meaningful relationships with customers. She reflects on the impact her parents had in starting the business and how it has become a central part of her identity and daily life.

What role does Bert play when helping people who are struggling, both professionally and personally?

Bert plays a supportive role not only in his professional capacity but also as a friend and mentor. He recalls helping a grieving customer learn how to cook, turning a professional interaction into a personal connection that helped the customer overcome personal struggles.

What are some challenges Bert faces while working in the market?

One challenge Bert faces is dealing with difficult or stressed customers who may direct their frustration at him. He also mentions the physical challenges of the work, such as waking up early and handling the weight of the job, which can be tough but rewarding.

How has the pandemic affected the market business?

During the pandemic, the market saw an increase in customers as it was one of the few places open, offering an essential service. However, after the pandemic, Simoni notes that people have stopped coming as often, with many now choosing supermarkets or other alternatives.

What do customers appreciate most about the products at the market?

Customers appreciate the freshness and quality of the products at the market, such as fruits, vegetables, and especially the famous 'pastel' (fried pastry). Despite higher prices compared to supermarkets, the products are valued for their superior quality, with many loyal customers returning for the authentic experience.

Why do Bert and Simoni emphasize the importance of passion in their work?

Both Bert and Simoni emphasize that working in the market requires passion, as it is physically demanding and involves early hours. They believe that only those truly passionate about the work can sustain such a lifestyle, as the job goes beyond monetary gain.