From Hobby to Livelihood: Vandee's Inspiring Journey 

At the age of 61, Ms. Vandee has turned her passion into her livelihood. Once just a hobby, weaving is now her main source of income, thanks to support from the CEGGA II Programme. 

Ms. Vandee, from the quiet village of Pakuai in Savannakhet, spent much of her life farming and weaving traditional textiles. However, weaving was always a hobby, something she did in her free time after working in the fields. She never imagined it could become her profession. But as farming became more difficult with age, she needed a new way to support herself.  

Her turning point came in early 2024 when the Community Development Association (CoDA) received a small grant from the CEGGA II Programme for a community empowerment project. One of the key activities was promoting traditional textiles in Pakuai village. The project provided Vandee with new weaving equipment and connected her with a local textile group, opening doors to new opportunities.  

With this support, Vandee and the textile group started connecting with local businesses, expanding their reach. Now, their handcrafted cotton textiles are sold to Savannakhet’s central market, attracting more customers than ever before. “I never believed I could make weaving my main source of income,” Vandee shared. "This support has changed my life. Now I can earn money and have something to do, while preserving our culture and sharing it with others."  She has also encouraged others to never give up, reminding them that it is never too late to start something new. 

Vandee is just one of many who have benefited from the CEGGA II Programme. In its second phase, the Programme has provided 23 small grants to civil society organisations, including CoDA, to empower local communities. CEGGA II is funded by Team Europe partners Switzerland, Germany, the European Union, and is implemented by GIZ.