Based on the lessons learned from the work of the Chiang Khong District Quality of Life Committee (QoL) in the “Happy Women”, which is part of the Building Organisations & Local Actors Dialogue for Policy (B.O.L.D. – Policy) project supported by the European Union (EU), it has been found that the “Kong Roi Nam Som” is one of the best practices that has produced tangible results.
With the support of the Chiang Khong District Quality of Life Development Committee, the “Kong Roi Nam Som” has created an interesting phenomenon in community development and improved the quality of life for women in Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, particularly in promoting women’s social roles in various dimensions.
What is the Kong Roi Nam Som?
The Kong Roi Nam Som is a network of 102 village women volunteers in Chiang Khong district who have been trained to address community issues, especially domestic violence and human trafficking. These women volunteers are like rivers, nourishing and refreshing their communities. More importantly, they are leaders driving positive changes within them.
Outstanding Achievements
Beyond reducing domestic violence and creating safer communities, the Kong Roi Nam Som has successfully empowered women to become community leaders in the following ways:
- Community Leaders: Many women from the Kong Roi Nam Som have been elected as village heads, assistant village heads, or village committee members, giving women a stronger voice in community decision-making.
- Organizational Leaders: Some have taken on roles in organizations such as local administrative organizations (LAOs) or village committees, allowing them to effectively promote policies that foster equality and community development.
- Vocational Group Leaders: Many women have formed groups to develop their careers and generate income for their families, leading to the creation of various economic base groups.
- Community Representatives: Women from the Kong Roi Nam Som have represented their communities at various events at the district, provincial, and regional levels, connecting with the “Kong Pan Nam Wan” in Roi Et province and increasing recognition and support for their communities.
Factors of Success
- Empowerment: The initiative prioritized developing women’s knowledge, skills, and confidence.
- Networking: Building strong networks among women in the community created a powerful force for driving change.
- Support from all sectors: Support from government, private sector, and organizations ensured the project’s sustainability.
- Role modeling: The success of women in the Kong Roi Nam Som inspired others to develop themselves.
Lessons Learned
The power of women emerges when they are given appropriate opportunities and support, enabling them to create significant change. Community participation is a crucial factor in addressing problems and driving progress. Additionally, building strong networks plays a key role in enhancing operational efficiency, and developing the potential of leaders is essential to support long-term success.
The Future of the Project
The Kong Roi Nam Som continues to expand to other communities and build a strong network of women across the country, aiming to provide everyone with equal opportunities and a better quality of life.
The Kong Roi Nam Som has proven that empowering women can lead to positive change. Women in Chiang Khong have demonstrated that they are true leaders of change.
Disclaimer: This website article is funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Center for Girls Foundation and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
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Click the link below to learn more about B.O.L.D. – Policy project.
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