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FIRST DIBS! Get a pair of our NEW Colorwave Earrings for ONLY $5 at checkout with any order of $55 or more! Shop Now.

Fair Trade Jewelry and Ethical Fashion

Ya’s Story of Hope

by | Artisans, Stories of Hope

Ya’s Story of Hope in Cambodia – (Read Time: 1 min.)

“My name is Jariya. One day someone flung a container of acid in my face. It burned my face, and ran down my body, dissolving both my skin and my life. The excruciating extensive burns threatened to take my life for months and since then, I’ve had to endure numerous surgeries to attempt to re-make my features and face to be normal again.” – Ya

Inspiring Hope

“I now have to live with the scarring of my face and body and also with the scarring on my heart.” – Ya

“I’ve consistently been the subject of mockery, hatred, rejection, and curiosity, but rarely the subject of compassion or help. I’m gradually trying to rebuild my life and to make a future for myself. But the only thing that gives me the courage to do that is that I know that I’m not alone and that I may be able to do something to help others.”

Healing Through Hope

“I started a family with my husband Seth. We have a baby boy and his name is Pratana. Without support from Trades of Hope, I wouldn’t be able to have a family. Life would be difficult, and I would suffer from hunger.” – Ya

“This isn’t just a job. I feel like part of a community that sees me and the Artisans and cares about us. It’s a matter of the heart, not just a business.”

Jewelry That Empowers Hope

Ya, Artisan in Cambodia
Tapestry Wrap Bracelet from Cambodia

“And it brings me great encouragement. It’s started to wash away all the words that people used to speak over me and my life.” – Ya, Artisan in Cambodia

Share this story!

5 Comments

  1. Amy

    She is such an inspiring woman!!!

    Reply
  2. Patricia M Tryal

    Having read Ya’s story a few years back, I praise God for how He has restored her to life and love and a family ! That baby boy is such a beauty! I rejoice with her and Seth for this great gift from above.

    Reply
  3. Loretta J Gisi

    Very beautiful women and courageous, inspiration to all of us.

    Reply
  4. Melanie

    Ya’s story of triumph over tragic adversity is such an inspiring one. I’m so grateful she has a beautiful family and a sustainable job. I am honored to partner with her!

    Reply
  5. Jessica

    Her story always moves me to tears! So happy for her new life and the wonderful men in her family!

    Reply

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Kathy Thomas

Kathy Thomas

Kathy Thomas is an inspirational writer with a passion for helping women discover and celebrate their unique gifts and abilities. Kathy is part of the Communications Team at Trades of Hope focusing on Artisan advocacy.