One-arm builder becomes internet sensation

Tao Jinjin, who only has one arm, has become a social media phenomenon. He now has more than 800,000 fans who regularly watch him online hard at work carrying bricks on a building site. [Photo: VCG]

24-year-old Tao Jinjin lost his right arm in an accident 8 years ago. His recovery was long and painful, but pretty soon he rose from being a worker on the building site, to carrying bricks and plastering walls. Pushing a two-wheel cart with his single arm works up a sweat. [Photo: VCG]

Tao Jinjin pushing a heavy cart loaded with cement. Right from the start, Tao Jinjin didn't want to be pitied, but wanted to prove that he could still do things. By chance, a friend showed him an app which allowed him to upload videos of him at work. He quickly became a hit on the platform. [Photo: VCG]

His mother filing Tao Jinjin, who says his strength is gained from the support he gets online. In return his example has inspired many others to work harder and try to change their own destiny. [Photo: VCG]

Tao Jinjin works hard on a building site. [Photo: VCG]

Tao Jinjin currently earns 100 yuan per day (USD 15) on the construction site, but thanks to his live streaming, his monthly income can reach up to 8,000 yuan. He says he's planning to one day get married and become a father. He wants to do everything he can to change his destiny, rather than stay as a builder. [Photo: VCG]