In Nong Khai Province, there is a vocational training center for hotel and hospitality services called Pimali. This center provides learning opportunities for young people to develop their professional skills a place for those who may not have started with everything, but are determined to move forward.
Established in 2015, the Pimali Foundation aims to support orphans and underprivileged youth in Northeastern Thailand and other regions nationwide. Its mission is to reduce social inequality through practical vocational training based on the concept of "Learning by Doing." Students undergo 12 months of hands-on learning at the foundation's training hotel a fully operational four-room facility that accommodates real guests. They are responsible for every task, from check-in, meal preparation, and service to housekeeping and check-out. Every day presents real-world learning experiences that shape their sense of responsibility and prepare them for future careers.
More than 80% of Pimali graduates have gone on to work in five-star hotels across Thailand, a testament to the success of experiential learning. Believing in the potential of the Pimali Foundation and these young learners, FWD Insurance has continuously supported the foundation since 2019 through educational scholarships, life and health insurance coverage, and financial literacy training to enhance essential life skills. The initiative aligns with FWD's two key social pillars reducing social inequality through education and career development, and promoting financial literacy to help young people build a foundation for sound financial planning. The company also provides opportunities for them to explore their potential, dream boldly, and live life on their own terms.
"Supporting education is one of the most powerful ways to reduce social inequality," said Mr. David Koruni?, Chief Executive Officer, Thailand & Cambodia at FWD Life Insurance Plc. "We are proud to play a role in giving these young people a solid foundation for their future helping them move toward success and self-sufficiency while empowering them to design their own lives. This reflects our brand promise, 'Celebrate living' encouraging everyone to live the life they love without worry. When young people are given the right opportunities, they can shape their own paths and inspire others to do the same."
One of these students is Noey (Phantira Pimsen) from Nakhon Phanom. She recalls the excitement of preparing a guest room for the first time. "I was so nervous because it was for a real guest," she said. "We had to do our best it wasn't just practice anymore." Noey grew up in a hardworking family; her mother farmed and took care of several children, making each day's income meaningful. With the scholarship from FWD, Noey discovered her own capabilities and began to see a future she could build for herself.
Alongside her is Jaja (Jindamanee Promwas) from SOS Children's Villages in Nong Khai. Having grown up in an orphanage, she was used to taking care of herself. "The first day I arrived at Pimali, I felt that this was a place where I could learn and prove myself. It was such a good feeling," she said softly. For the first time, she felt she had the right to dream and to live life her own way.
Both Noey and Jaja once felt uncertain about their futures, but Pimali helped them recognize their potential and step out of their comfort zones. "The key is to open your mind," Jaja said with a smile. "When you do, you'll see that the world is full of opportunities."
During their training, Noey chose the housekeeping department, learning patience and attention to detail, while Jaja chose the kitchen, where she found joy in cooking. "Sometimes happiness is in the aroma of a simple fried rice," Jaja laughed.
FWD's financial literacy workshops added even more value to their learning experience. Designed as game-based learning, the sessions used money-themed board games led by FWD volunteer staff, helping the students understand financial management in a fun, practical way. The workshops covered goal setting, budgeting, saving, and basic investment knowledge they could immediately apply in real life.
"The board game really opened my eyes," Jaja said. "I used to think money was simple you just spend what you have. But now I know that good planning can lead to a more stable life." Noey added, "This scholarship changed my life. I've learned to plan my future, manage my money, and with life and health insurance from FWD, I feel secure like there's someone supporting me no matter what happens."
After graduation, both stepped confidently into the working world. That decision to seize the opportunity became a turning point in their lives. Jaja now works as a kitchen assistant managing the breakfast buffet line at Park Hyatt Bangkok. "I'm proud that I dared to step out and learn to adapt. I use the skills I learned at Pimali every day," she said. "I still follow the financial tips from FWD dividing my income into three parts: spending, sending home, and saving. One day, I hope to support other children just like I was supported."
Noey joined The Sukhothai Bangkok Hotel in the housekeeping and linen department, handling everything from measuring uniforms to repairs. "It feels great to be myself," she said. "I send money home every month now. My mom says not to worry about money anymore and I've started saving, too. My dream is to finish building our family home for my mom."
"In three years, I want to go back and share my experience with younger students at Pimali," Noey said. "I want them to know that if I can do it, so can they." Jaja added, "I want to teach cooking to children in my community to show them the importance of teamwork, because that's what helps you thrive in the real world."
From very different beginnings, both have learned that where you start doesn't define where you can go. Choosing to take opportunities and act upon them can change one's future. Their stories are proof that education can transform lives, and that reducing inequality begins with opportunity and practical skill development. This is why FWD Insurance continues to support the Pimali Foundation to empower youth to build secure futures of their own.
Today, many other Pimali students can be seen early in the morning standing by the stoves, preparing breakfast for guests, making beds, and readying rooms for check-in. Every task they perform is another step toward a secure and independent future. Someday, they too will become the inspiration for others.
About the Pimali Foundation Vocational Scholarship Program: FWD Life Insurance Plc. has supported the Pimali Foundation in Nong Khai Province since 2019 by providing 7-10 annual vocational scholarships for underprivileged youth. The program offers hands-on training in kitchen operations, food and beverage service, and housekeeping, based on the "Learning by Doing" concept. Today, more than 80% of graduates have secured employment in five-star hotels across Thailand a testament to the foundation's success in empowering youth through real-world learning.