The Nation 21 Sep 2008
KUPLUTHAI PUNGKANON
THE SUNDAY NATION

Veteran businesswoman Nualphan Lamsam, president of Muang Thai Insurance and high-end fashion brand Hermes, is revelling in her new role as a spokesperson for the disabled.

For the past four years, as part of the company's social-responsibility project, Nualphan has been engaged in various activities promoting the potential of disabled people. In 2006, she was appointed manager of the disabled Thais contesting the ninth Fespic Games, and last year she led the team to the fourth Asian Para Games.

This year, she's been named an honorary adviser to the Office of National for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The organisation recently held an innovative festival promoting the power of Thai persons with disabilities from across the country.

"The disabled are in fact very capable. Many are skilled sportsmen, musicians and artists," says Nualphan. "Their tenacity and concentration makes them very good at what they do. We currently employ four disabled individuals and they are not just hardworking but also keen to learn."

Besides working as a sponsor, Nualphan also looks after fundraising and public relations, encouraging both the public and private sector to become more involved.

"Many in the private sector are interested in providing support. For example, thanks to Kasikorn Bank, a group of disabled athletes were able to go to Beijing to watch the Olympics. My task is to match the support to those who need it the most."
Nualphan is currently working closely with the Stock Exchange and PTT on similar projects.

"In Thailand, there are about two million people with disabilities but only 80,000 of them are registered so many are missing out on support and opportunities to which they're entitled. That's why raising awareness is so very important right now," she says.

Among the organisation's projects, which cover everything from research to community development, Nualphan is particularly impressed by Youth for Next Step, a volunteer programme that aims to teach young people to improve society.

"This network has my wholehearted support, as these young people are willing to help those in need, especially persons with disabilities."

Nualphan emphasises that her ultimate goal is to see people living in harmony and treating each other with care and respect, especially those with disabilities.

"Look at their abilities instead of their limitations and you'll be very surprised," she says.