Chao Thai Mai Building Opening

Internationally acclaimed supermodel Petra Nemcova from the Happy Heart Fund teamed together with 4Kali to fund the re-building of the Chao Thai Mai Primary school which offers education to the indigenous Moken community. The official opening was held on the 12th March 2007.

David van der Laan, Executive Director of 4Kali reported “ It is wonderful to see the once dilapidated school in new repair, creating a safe educational facility for the children attending.” The afternoon event was started with a parade of children walking through the school dressed in traditional dress and an assortment of amazing costumes. The children met their VIP guests and handed out specially hand crafted corsages of fresh flowers and batik cloth individually made by the children. The afternoon schedule was an amazing array of colors and children's performances including a Thai dance and a play explaining the history of the Moken community. We later found out the children and one of the teachers had actually been sleeping at the school practicing day and night to perfect their shows, create their own costumes, and make their special token gifts.

Petra Nemcova said, “May we continue to bring light into the lives of the children, to uplift them with the best possible opportunity, and a happy, healthy life and an enriching educational experience. Planting seeds of love and kindness may a beautiful garden grow.” Sadly Stu and Sally Breisch were unable to attend the opening. Sven Maikranz, CEO gave a very warm, inspirational speech on behalf of 4Kali engaging the children and interacting with them on a personal level. The day ended with an impromptu Karaoke rendition of an old 70’s song, and a beautiful spread of homemade cakes and snacks made by David’s wife.

4kali would like to take this opportunity to thank Kathy and the Marriott landscaping team for doing an amazing job on the school grounds!