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Kunyanee

"Hello! My name is Kunyanee Intarasorn and my nickname is Mon. I was born on February 22, 1967. I went to Bangkok when I was 17 and was employed in a company manufacturing leather accessories. I worked there for 14 years, training and learning the fine art of leather making. From tanning, designing, drawing and cutting patterns to sewing pieces together in wonderful accessories, I think I learned everything about leather crafting.

"Then the financial crisis of 1997 swept through Asia and the company dismissed most of the employees. So I came back to my hometown where I organized a leatherwork group in 2000. The government supported us initially and we gradually became self-sustaining. Our group creates jobs and provides opportunities to villagers. So far we have 15 member artisans. Not only can they earn money but this also creates a micro-economic community that runs a financial system where apprentices can be trained.

"We are now becoming well known locally. I sent some of our works to a contest, and they passed the district, province and division pre-selective levels, and the items ended up being rated 3 stars. We currently carry a whole range of contemporary accessories. Very recently we have also launched a new line mixing leather with Thai silk, cotton embroidery and also carving on leather. These are accessories made with local wisdom and the finest materials.

"As a Thai woman, I'm so proud that I have my own career. My husband is also working with me at home on making leather products. Besides being able to support myself and my family, I'm so happy that I can also share the leather work with more than ten families in my village."