Even though I can’t work like others, I’ve found a way to support my family.
A Business Born from Necessity
In Nam Gnow village, Bokeo province, 25-year-old Chansouk Chanthanorm is redefining what’s possible for someone living with a visual disability. Unable to take on physically demanding work, Chansouk, with support from his wife Soua, opened a small convenience store beneath their home to help support their young family.
While many villagers rely on farming, it wasn’t enough to get by. The shop became a vital source of income, earning the family around 1.2 million kip per month. But with a leaky roof and rough road conditions, the rainy season often forced them to close.
Oxfam’s Support Makes the Difference
In 2023, Oxfam selected Chansouk’s household as one of the poorest in the village to receive support. Through the livelihoods programme, he received 1.9 million kip in cash assistance and a livelihood package.
He used the funds to strengthen his shop, buying 20 corrugated tin sheets and 34 wooden beams, ensuring it could stay open year-round. With the improvements, sales more than doubled. His monthly income rose to 2.5 million kip, helping the family improve their quality of life.
Plans to Expand and Serve the Community
Chansouk now dreams of expanding the shop even further. He wants to add more essential items, drinks, dried fish, and foods that reflect the tastes of the local Khmu and Hmong communities. He also hopes to provide disposable dishes for village events, saving residents long trips to neighbouring towns.
With additional support, he aims to grow his business into a trading venture serving the nearby Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, where there is a strong demand for fresh and dried foods.
Plans to Expand and Serve the Community
Chansouk now dreams of expanding the shop even further. He wants to add more essential items, drinks, dried fish, and foods that reflect the tastes of the local Khmu and Hmong communities. He also hopes to provide disposable dishes for village events, saving residents long trips to neighbouring towns.
With additional support, he aims to grow his business into a trading venture serving the nearby Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, where there is a strong demand for fresh and dried foods.
A Father’s Dream for His Children
Chansouk’s ambition is rooted in family. As a young father of two, he hopes his children will have access to the education he missed out on after leaving school to support his family.
I want my family to be comfortable. And I want my children to receive a high education. That’s very important to me.”— Chansouk Chanthanorm
A Vision for the Village
Beyond his business, Chansouk hopes to see broader improvements in Nam Gnow, especially better roads. Poor infrastructure continues to limit access to markets and increase the cost of living for families like his.
But with determination, family support, and a boost from Oxfam, Chansouk is creating change, not just for himself, but for his community too.
