Noy is from a well-known part of northern Laos called Luang Prabang province.

• Originally from a farming family with ten siblings, Noy moved when she was 14 years old. Her parents could not make enough money from the farm to feed everyone.
• They moved the capital city of Vientiane when her father found work as a truck driver.
• In middle school, Noy spent time hanging around friends after classes. Their favorite spot was at a weaving workshop. Gradually, Noy began learning weaving informally from the village elders, but when they noticed her proficiency and dexterity on the loom, they taught her the old ways.
• Noy eventually dropped out of school because her family couldn't afford the school fees, so she began weaving for a living. At 24, Noy continues to weave elegant pieces, infusing her continual laugh into each one!
• "I don't know what to say to people who buy my pieces. I am so happy. Thank you so much for liking my pieces!"

Like mothers the world over, Noy's dreams are closely tied to her only child, her 2-year old daughter Phouna.

• "I want Phouna to finished school and not have to drop out like I did. I didn't want to drop out. I wanted to stay in school, but how could we do it? My parents did not have enough money to pay for my school and my younger brothers and sisters. So I dropped out. It is okay."
• Noy dreams about the day when Phouna has finished school and is making a good living on her own.
• No matter what happens in her life, Noy wants to continue weaving-she loves the meditative rhythm of the shuttle moving back and forth as each new centimeter is woven.
• Noy also dreams about having a house they can call their own one day.

Working with GIANNA has provided Noy with not only economic opportunities, but also an opportunity to practice a respected and ancient art-form.

• Being a master weaver means receiving respect and admiration from the community. Noy's expert weaving skills make her a role model in her community.
• Aside from the weaving, Noy's husband, Soubinh, is able to practice his natural dyeing skills, which provide additional economic means for the family.
• Weaving ever-changing designs means continually learning new skills and techniques, often blending old designs with more modern motifs.