Colgate man still selling toothpaste after 43 years

JOHN Noki is known in Mt Hagen as the “Colgate toothpaste man” because he has been selling that product around the city for the past 43 years.
The 56-year-old walks around the streets wearing a red-collar shirt with “Straight Outta Hagen” written on it.
He has been selling toothpaste on the streets of Mt Hagen since 1974.
He recalls leaving grade six in 1973 and started his trade the next year.
He got married in 1975.
On why he has been concentrating on selling just one item and what he had gained from it, he said selling the toothpaste was his “lifetime” activity.
He is seen every day at the markets and bus stops.
He supports his family with his income.
“I have three children,” he said.
“I pay their school fees and look after my family by selling Colgate.
He buys the toothpaste from wholesale outlets and resells them on the street.
Noki hails from the Moge tribe who live near the city. He is a popular figure around the city.
Visitors to Mt Hagen will never miss him. And the “Colgate” man is not thinking of changing careers any time soon. As he puts it, it is a “lifetime” job.