Thuy was born in Xieng Huang province in the northern part of Laos, and moved with her husband to Phiengdee village in search of more opportunity.

• Thuy finished fifth grade, but had to stop her education so that her family could send her sister to school.
• She learned how to weave at age 10 by watching her mother weave traditional Lao skirts.
• Thuy weaves in her free time and feels so lucky that she can earn a living doing something she loves!
• "I am happy that you are learning about me. Thank you, and please -- I wish you happiness, good health, and lots of money."

Thuy and her family currently live in a bamboo house she and her husband built themselves. She hopes the extra money her weaving provides will allow them to build a beautiful wooden house that she can decorate nicely.

• Another dream Thuy was excited to share is about saving for her children's education. She only finished 5th grade, but hopes her children will finish high school, then college. When we asked what career she wanted for them, she said, "Their job depends on them. They can do whatever they want. I just want to give them the chance to do anything. I want them to be happy."

Weaving has taught Thuy valuable business skills that she says she would not have learned otherwise.

• Additionally, she says the extra income has allowed her husband to study medicine, which means he will be able to earn more money for their family after he graduates and becomes the village doctor.
• Thuy is grateful for the chance to be part of our team and is excited to share her knowledge with other women in her village so they can all improve their lives.