people

Martin Momoda: Book maker and Seller

Background in teaching English as a foreign language, cross-culture communication and curriculum development. Worked in Tokyo, Japan (20 years) Ubon Ratchatani, Thailand (4 years) and Luang Prabang / Vientiane, Laos (3 years). MA Degrees in Applied Linguistics (Monash University) and International Development (Melbourne University). Volunteered in private and government schools in Luang Prabang from 2006-2008. Now based in Vientiane managing the writing, printing and distribution of the texts. Born and raised in Seattle Washington. Martin can be contacted by email or by telephone (856)-020-7483128 (Laos). His blog “momobooks notes” is here. A recent article describing is work published in June 2009 in his hometown paper is here.

Chaleunxay Phommavongsa: Printer

Born in Xieng Khouang Province, Laos. Worked on several projects for socially viable commerce including the design of a prototype electric car in 1988 and an organic cotton business. Studied micrography in Germany and trained as a certified Mac engineer in Singapore. Learned English with a monk at Phaxay Temple. Volunteered teaching computer skills. Acquired international standard printing presses and trained staff in print engineering and graphic design using Macs. Started the printing business in 1993. This growing business now employs 50 people in the neighborhood. Chaleunxay can be contacted by email or phone at (856)-020-5517732

The customers

In Vientiane, the biggest sales are made at government offices, banks, hotels and private businesses. 70% are female and over 25. Sadly, teachers and administrators, NGOs and international organizations are slow to buy. Books sell well in the markets and foreign mini-marts. In rural provinces, students are overwhelmingly the most enthusiastic buyers.