Hope and inspiration to trafficking survivors

Her story is an amazing journey to give her fellow villagers a better life and a sense of pride for the Lao weaving tradition. But Mrs. Song of Laha Sinh, a weaving company using natural dyes and materials, took her voyage further by helping out trafficked women.

In 1997, Mrs. Song was a garments factory operator who realized the business was too competitive, demanding and often led to poor working conditions due to pressing deadlines. The production of hand-woven textiles was described by many as one of the most prolific of Laos’s traditional crafts, she has seen the huge prospect that can at the same time provide income generation for communities. Other livelihood opportunities include cotton production.

From humble and very challenging beginnings, Laha Weaving grew and became famous abroad – with its products displayed side-by-side with luxury brands in a shopping mall in Japan. Through hard work and love of the craft, the Laha brand rose to conquer the US and European markets. Thai Princess Maja Chakri Sirindhon visited the weaving shop in Savannakhet twice, fascinated by the success of the venture.

At least 500 families spanning villages in Savannakhet province in the southern part of Laos is now part of the Laha weaving groups that allows families to stay at home but still earn not less than Kip 500,000 (US$60) per month, depending on how fast they can complete the cloths. “We instill quality and discipline among the groups. We do this because our products represent the Lao culture and tradition,” Mrs. Song emphasizes with pride.

Ten trafficked women were recommended by World Vision’s Mekong Delta Trafficking Strategy (MDTRS) Project and have been accepted with open arms into the Laha fold. Mai, a 15-year-old girl who escaped from her employer in Bangkok said her hope to start anew rose since she got trained on bag-making and weaving. Aside from that, she learned the value of trust and honesty.

Mrs. Song promotes discipline among the weavers and is willing to train even the inexperienced ones. “As long as they are interested, we are happy to provide them the chance to learn new skills and earn income.” After a harrowing experience seeking for greener pastures, the women found what they were looking for right in their own community.

Indeed, Mrs. Song provides a welcome opportunity for the women to move on.

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