I’m hardly experienced, but giving some general process, manufacturing, and assembly recommendations doesn’t actually require tons of experience. I saw the posting: "manufacturing engineer needed—organization focused on empowering women and children at risk seeks help with basic manufacturing/assembly skills and process set-up for jewelry business." Actually, I was fairly intimidated when I found it. The funny thing is that I think I might actually be helping these women in some small way, but really they are helping me far more. They chose to leave the sex industry for alternative employment after meeting the staff here at NightLight (Nightlight). Making jewelry is something they can do quickly and without much training, but the back-end small business stuff is overwhelming for them. I’ve been able to give general recommendations for work-flow and process improvements, and they have shown me true joy. Several volunteers have brought this jewelry business to life, and I now feel honored to be playing a tiny role. Freedom and choice have entirely new meaning to me.

Women and Education Women of all ages flock from rural Thailand to Bangkok in search of work to support their families. Unfortunately, most of these women typically have less than a high school education and few marketable skills. The sex industry in Bangkok constantly lures them in promising customers from all over the world and endless financial possibilities. These women are instantly given work that feeds their children and families upcountry; however, their self-esteem and personal dignity are often lost in the process.

Small-business creation using alternative skill employment. These women need immediate jobs, yet without the marketable skills required in most industries, they are greatly limited. Product assembly is a simple task with an undemanding learning curve. The women can leave the bars one day and be making semi-precious jewelry the next.

Rather than learning to just make money somewhere else, these women are learning to lead healthy lives through various transformation programs—language and literacy training, health education, family and life skills training, and alternative employment education opportunities. They can experience physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional healing within this organization’s holistic program.