My name is Kuon Chenda, and I am the owner of Somornea Horn Handicrafts. I have been running my business since 2003 with the aim of addressing horn wastes problem in my neighborhood. Starting this business was far from easy. I faced social pressure, financial instability, and the challenge of finding a product-market. At one point, I even gave up the business. However, because of my husband’s passion and skills, we moved to Phnom Penh in 2015 to restart and strengthen our business.

Presently, my business has 5 employees, including my husband, who serves as a craftsman and designer. He also trains apprentices. I am the general manager of this business, managing sales and marketing. Initially, we focused on home decoration products, such as statues, which we exported abroad. At that time, there was an association that supported finding international customers for us. However, due to the challenge with transportation and products breakage, we shifted our focus to ornaments and jewelry, such as necklaces, rings, and bracelets.

Unfortunately, the association was closed down, which caused our orders to drop significantly. We lost some overseas customers, leading to a decline in our business during the COVID pandemic. During this period, we closed our shop and shifted to selling through social media. Sales were promising at first, but they eventually decreased. As the situation improved, we began selling at exhibitions. Currently, I sell my products in two locations: at Chip Mong 271 supermarket and on weekends at the Riverside Walk Street.

As a business owner, I believe capacity development is vital for business owners. It is an opportunity to gain new knowledge to strengthen and grow a business. I often take time to participate in capacity-building sessions offered by associations, institutions, and other relevant stakeholders. For instance, when I attended EPIC training, I  learnt about creating a business plan, which inspired me to critically assess my business and identify my shortcomings. At the same time, I also learned about business loans, tips for sourcing capital, and setting clear goals for an effective business plan.

Based on my business experience, I encourage all business owners to remain flexible in their business operations, especially by listening to customers’ needs and feedback, and strengthening marketing strategies and methods to ensure customers are aware of the quality and products you offer.

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