Kongseng is the coordinator of our Protection and Empowerment of Women and Children (PEWC) program, and a recognized national expert in the areas of human trafficking and child protection. Kongseng has built VFI’s counter-trafficking program from the ground up. She started as VFI’s Administrative Officer and now runs a program that includes 27 staff members, two shelters, a drop-in center, a transit center, outreach activities in 50+ villages, and many other projects.

Hongthong is the coordinator of our Land & Livelihoods (L&L) program and overseer of VFI’s Green Earth Centre, our 40-hectare demonstration farm and training facility. Hongthong started at VFI when it was founded and has established VFI as a key national stakeholder in land and natural resource rights. In the process, Hongthong has become a national expert in the sector and works closely with government, civil society, and villages to protect local livelihoods.

Kood, as she is known to us, is VFI’s master agriculture and food processing trainer. She’s been with VFI since 2003 and works with women, girls and men at our Green Earth Centre in southern Laos and shelter in Pakse. Kood can usually be found demonstrating mushroom production, community gardening, small livestock husbandry, food processing, and social enterprise development to empower and educate farmers and trafficking survivors.

Athithane MAHATHIRASH, known as Nui, has been a valued member of Village Focus International (VFI) since 2015. With more than a decade of service to the organization, he has contributed significantly to strengthening VFI’s financial management and administrative systems.

As Finance and Administration Manager, Nui oversees financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and day-to-day administrative operations. He works closely with management and program teams to promote effective resource management, financial accountability, and compliance with organizational and donor requirements. His experience and commitment help ensure that VFI’s programs and operations are implemented efficiently and sustainably.

Soulinda Manysoth is a Project Manager and legal specialist with over 15 years of experience in legal empowerment, responsible agriculture investment, and community engagement in Laos. He has extensive experience facilitating training, developing curricula, manuals, and IEC materials on related topics. He leads projects focused on private sector engagement, legal awareness, and capacity building, working closely with government partners, civil society organisations, and communities. He is committed to empowering communities through knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inclusive development.