Manava

Manava was founded in 2016 and is a social enterprise created to support rural Cambodian artisanal women for a stable and sustainable future. The founder is Ka-Lai Chan, a Dutch designer with Asian roots who has worked for 10+ years with renowned international design brands. Co-founder Baraing Tho is a local Khmer man who has an impressive background working with several creative NGO’s within Cambodia. Together Ka-Lai and Baraing are currently working closely with 24 female artisans, all of whom are living in Krobey Riel village located just 10 km outside of Siem Reap. Translated from Sanskrit, Manava means humankind. Manava believes in love, people and culture being at the heart of all their designs. They support female artisans by creating exclusive, artisanal rattan products that strengthen the international reputation of Cambodia's creative industries. Manava provides their artisans with a sustainable income, empowers their creativity and offers them a safe working environment, where their views and opinions matter.