Uthai thani: A hardworking couple with disabilities have turned their challenges into opportunities by establishing a thriving business centered around weaving water hyacinth, growing vegetables, and running a smoothie shop.
According to Thai News Agency, the couple from Ban Nong Kae, Village No. 4, Nong Kae Subdistrict, Mueang Uthai Thani District, has become a beacon of resilience and entrepreneurship. Mr. Somkiat Kaewkhetkarn, 67, who has been disabled since birth due to polio and later suffered a stroke, and his wife, Mrs. Somjit, 55, who is speech impaired, have not let their disabilities deter them. Together, they have built a livelihood by creating woven handicrafts, which they sell on order to support their family.
Mr. Somkiat, who uses a wheelchair and has limited use of his left hand, acquired weaving skills through a vocational training program by the Nong Kae Subdistrict Administrative Organization. He crafts shoulder bags and baskets from water hyacinth, a process that starts with collecting the plant from local water bodies, drying the stems, and weaving them into products. Despite his physical limitations, Mr. Somkiat can produce one piece per day, with prices ranging from 150 to 300 baht. The demand for their products extends beyond Uthai Thani, with customers from Rayong, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, generating approximately 3,000 baht per month.
In addition, the couple manages a small shop at their home, offering smoothies and Northeastern Thai sausages, alongside vegetables and fruits they grow themselves. Mrs. Somjit, despite her inability to speak, actively participates in growing and selling produce such as lettuce, coriander, basil, and bananas, both at their shop and in Uthai Thani's farmers' market.
Their daughter, who works in a convenience store in Uthai Thani city, supports the family in other ways. Mr. Somkiat also leads a network of 15 people with disabilities, facilitating the sale of members' products to boost income within their community.
The inspiring journey of Mr. Somkiat and Mrs. Somjit exemplifies determination and resourcefulness, proving that with hard work and creativity, they can overcome obstacles and succeed in their endeavors.