As a travel and documentary photographer, I regularly come into contact with a wide variety of people from all walks of life. The more I travel and learn, the more it reinforces the idea that people everywhere are essentially kind, generous and willing to give of themselves. Stopping to take the time to talk with people reveals some great stories and everyday heroes.

This man is one such individual. Friendly, generous, selfless and patient, he was happy to be repeatedly photographed while he told us a few stories. He is one of Taiwan’s indigenous people living on the east coast. Operating a small market stand in a sea side night market, he crafts aboriginal jewelery and handicrafts to sell to tourists.

As well as making and selling handicrafts, he’s also a member of an Aboriginal dance troupe and a puppetmaster, offering short, impromptu puppet shows for anyone interested and dancing in a regular show.

This is not all he does however. During Taiwan’s long, hot summer, he works as a volunteer lifeguard on the beaches of the East Coast. Scores of people owe their lives to this mans generosity – in one day alone last summer he saved 30 people from drowning.

It’s people like this that serve to remind everyone that everyday heroes can be found everywhere.

If you have any stories you’d like to share, feel free to leave them in the comments.