Svay Rieng has a sewing group called Rachana (RHBS) – founded in 2003 with the help of the Japanese NPO, Secondhand (an NGO who provides training in sewing skills). They use Cambodian materials to make cute animal soft toys and straps, as well other such items as elephant shaped oven mitts. The 11 female Cambodian members now operate the group without the training and financial support of the NGO. As working from home is possible, some members are farmers, housewives or working mothers.

Ms. Sinath, a leader, and member since the group was founded, told us, “Our activities are thanks to the words of our customers.” She explains the improvements to order times, inspection levels and quality were implemented in order to prevent customer complaints. “They’re cute and easy to hand out, making them great souvenirs,” she was told by one customer. “These kinds of comments make me immensely happy. I also gain ideas for new products from customers’ orders, this job is very fulfilling work.” Into the future they plan to develop new products using different materials, so they can make customers even happier.