Kong

Kong is a young Cambodian designer who has risen above the adversity that has been the history of Cambodia. She trained as a seamstress and then as a store manager, eventually going on to start her own small business. Feeling strongly about supporting others like her, she invited eight women and men disabled by landmines or polio to live, eat and work communally in her business. She has trained them in the skills necessary to become wage earners for themselves and their families. Kong’s small group is certified under the Artisans Association of Cambodia, an internationally certified fair trade organization.

Kong designs a unique range of silk products including purses, pouches, totes, clutches and jewelery rolls. Because she pays great attention to detail and to quality control in her production, the exquisite beauty shines in all her work.

Kong and her producers

Mrs. Sokhorn

The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Cambodia is among the highest in Asia with 15% of the population being affected. The good news is there has been a rapid decline in new cases in the last 12 years due to a concerted effort by over 80 organizations working to reverse the spread of HIV and to provide support to people living with HIV including orphans and vulnerable children. Sor Sokhorn is a single mother living with HIV since 2000 when she was 42. She has 9 children- 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 20, 18,15 and the youngest, a girl 10 years old. Some of her children are married and have jobs while others are still studying at primary or secondary school. She works in her own home-based sewing operation with help from some of her older children. Her creations are beautiful grass reed purses, pouches and bags. With a fair wage payment from D Strong Imports, she can make a better monthly income than if she worked in a factory. As well, she has the flexibility to rest or take a day off if she is not feeling well. It is a wonderful family business well-known in her community of Russey Keo near Phnom Penh.

Street Child in Cambodia