A new initiative is giving women the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty and create sustainable futures for their families. 

The partnership between Ability Fair Trade Village (AFTV) and the Global Envirotech Initiative (GEI) has launched a life-changing training programme in Kampong Khlaing commune of Siem Reap province’s Sotr Nikum district, providing women with the opportunity to learn crochet and knitting skills through a collaboration with Cambodia Knits (CK).

The programme, which took place in July and August, awarded scholarships to 40 women from two villages, enabling them to attend a 16-day training course that opened up pathways for sustainable employment. 

These women, many of whom had no prior experience in crafting, now have the chance to earn a fair income through home-based work – an essential opportunity in an area where formal job opportunities are scarce.

From training to employment

Delivered in two phases, the training first introduced participants to basic crochet and knitting techniques. 

The second phase focused on producing specific products for CK, a social enterprise known for providing flexible employment to marginalised communities. 

The programme was designed not only to equip women with technical skills but also to offer them a viable way to support their families.

CK founder and CEO Monika Nowaczyk praised the participants for their dedication.

“The trainees exhibited a strong eagerness to learn and are actively engaging by asking numerous questions to deepen their understanding,” she said. 

Of Polish-Canadian descent, she came to work in Cambodia for the first time in 2000, returning in 2006 to make the Kingdom her second home.

Nowaczyk works as an education consultant, trying to help create economic opportunities for women.

She founded CK – a social enterprise working with communities in and near Phnom Penh and in rural areas – in 2009, believing that women play important roles in helping families rise out of poverty.

“Our goal is to produce beautiful, high quality and unique hand-made products while providing fair and flexible employment opportunities,” she told The Post.

She also noted that many participants stayed beyond the scheduled hours to practice their new skills​.

According to Nowaczyk, by the end of the programme, the women’s first product samples demonstrated a significant level of skill and promise for future production. 

She highlighted that this hands-on approach ensures that participants are well-prepared for the demands of formal production work.

One of the participants, Sok Nhei, a 58-year-old craftswoman, diligently works on orders like plush crocodiles to support her family, which includes two daughters, despite facing challenges such as a leaky roof and health issues.

After the closure of Nyemo Cambodia, Nhei joined the Cambodian Women's Support Group (CWSG), founded by Ky Kanary, to continue producing handmade accessories and toys, which are sold in collaboration with CK.

The partnership provides crucial income to women like Nhei, although irregular orders limit their financial stability.

“If we have more local customers, we would be able to earn enough to buy rice,” Nhei said.

Recognising achievement

The impact of the programme was celebrated during an award ceremony on August 23, presided over by district governor Kim Vannak. He presented certificates to 31 women who completed the training and offered words of encouragement, highlighting the broader significance of the initiative.

“You all have the potential to become role models for others,” he told the participants, urging them to share their newfound skills with others in their villages.

The support of local leaders has been crucial to the success of the initiative. Community leaders not only encouraged women to enroll in the programme but also motivated them to stay the course. 

Their continued backing will be essential as these women embark on their journey as skilled artisans, helping them secure a sustainable income and contributing to the local economy.

The women at CK craft each of their knitted and crocheted stuffed animals and toys with unique names and stories, giving them a touch of individuality and charm.

Sovann, a black and grey sleepy doll, reflects the gentle nature of its Khmer name. Made with love and care by local Cambodian women, he’s a perfect companion for babies.

“All of our sleepy dolls have names beginning with ‘S’, most of which are Khmer names,” explained Nowaczyk.

“I noticed that many Khmer children share names starting with the same sound, and I wanted to honour that tradition,” she added.

Breaking the cycle of poverty

AFTV’s collaboration with CK is part of a larger mission to address poverty in rural areas by providing meaningful employment opportunities. 

According to AFTV director Chhoy Naret said the initiative is a critical step toward changing lives for the better in the commune. 

“You are my heroes,” Naret said to the participants. “You are the first, the leaders in changing the future of your villages. A future with good jobs for every family and no ‘poor cards’.”

The programme doesn’t stop at training. Those who successfully demonstrate their abilities will be offered a three-month probation period with CK, leading to the possibility of long-term employment. 

This includes access to Cambodia’s National Social Security Fund (NSSF), offering benefits such as work injury insurance, healthcare and pension.

“Given economic opportunities, women invest their incomes into health, education and the futures of their families,” Nowaczyk said, emphasising the broader impact of the initiative.

This is a powerful reminder that empowering women is about more than just providing jobs – it’s about building a brighter future for entire communities.

Expanding opportunities

The training programme’s success is just the beginning. AFTV has already announced plans to create even more employment opportunities in the coming year, with new initiatives such as a sewing shop, bicycle shop, cricket farm and greenhouse set to launch. 

These projects will provide additional avenues for local families to earn a sustainable income, helping them to improve their quality of life.

CK also continues to play a pivotal role in supporting these women. The organisation produces and sells a range of handcrafted items, from Sleepy Snoogus dolls to educational toys, which are beloved by customers for their quality and the social impact they represent. 

Every purchase helps to provide steady work for these artisans, contributing to a cycle of empowerment and poverty alleviation.

A call to support

By purchasing products from CK or through donations to AFTV’s ongoing efforts, people from around the world can support these women in their journey to financial independence. 

As they step into new roles as skilled artisans and community leaders, their work will ripple throughout their villages, encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.

The programme highlights the importance of collaboration, community support and resilience in overcoming challenges. With ongoing support, initiatives like this can change lives, break the cycle of poverty and empower women to create a sustainable future for themselves and their families.