Red Wood Beaded Strand Necklace from Thailand, "Island Allure in Ruby"

The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women.

Sumalee has struggled for many years. She has a small shop in a local market but the sales are erratic, tied to tourism, and do not provide enough income to meet her expenses. Her Novica sales are essential to her survival and the survival of those who depend on her. She is working very hard to increase her sales.

Sumalee helps to support her mother in a unique way. She hires her mother and other older workers to help with the hand-finishing of her statement jewelry created from wooden beads.

As a child, Sumalee learned sewing, embroidery and weaving from her mother. She still practices these arts today and often teaches them to younger artisans.

Sumalee Nawakul has received 3 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1300 and the most recent for $1400.

Sumalee does not have any children but she loves being an aunt. She helps her younger sister with the cost of her niece's education.

This artist supports children under the age of 18.