On a mission to help [from a Cambodian-Australian woman]

By NICOLE VALICEK

The Weribee Star

13th November 2012

Ravy Leang-Slattery is selling original Cambodian products with the proceeds helping disabled people and families in need in Cambodia. 89833 Picture: JOE MASTROIANNI RAVY 

Leang-Slattery may speak in broken English but her message is loud and clear.

The Cambodian resident has lived in Australia for a short time but already she has a mission to help disabled individuals and families back in her home country.

Mrs Leang-Slattery has transformed the small garage in her Hoppers Crossing home that she shares with husband and Australian Wayne into a treasure trove of traditional hand-made Cambodian merchandise. Growing up in the poverty stricken Anseong Village in the Cambodian provincial capital called Prey Veng, Mrs Leang-Slattery got polio when she was two, a disease that has left her with some debilitating mobility.

Since moving to Australia in May Mrs Leang-Slattery has set-up the business to support herself and help disabled families in Cambodia with most of the profits from sales going to those in need.

“When I can help like this it makes my heart very, very happy,” Mrs Leang-Slattery said.

Using her Cambodian ties Mrs Leang-Slattery works with an organisation in Cambodia that employs 20 disabled people who help to make the original Cambodian products.

The garage show-room is filled with hand-made items showcasing the excellent weaving and craftsmanship that Cambodians are famous for.

The selection of hand-made products includes silk scarfs, necklaces, purses, earring, bags and card holders, all of which have an eclectic design and style that is reminiscent of the Cambodia landscape and flavour.

Mr Slattery, who is also vice chairperson of the Wyndham Disability Action Group, said he is very proud of his wife.

“I’m very proud. She does the layout I do the work. I’m the labourer, she’s the brains of the business,” Mr Slattery said.

For more information or to purchase a product contact Ravy on 0405 467 642 or email ravy_leang@yahoo.com