Khankham’s journey from student to entrepreneur

In the heart of Luang Prabang province, Lao PDR, Khankham PHOUTTHAVONG has transformed her life through vocational training. A single mother with a background in cooking and a strong desire to expand her skills, she now runs a thriving food and drinks stall, thanks to a three-month certificate level 1 course delivered as part of the Skills for tourism, agriculture and forestry (STAF) programme—an initiative aimed at enhancing vocational education in the tourism and hospitality sector. She shares her inspiring journey from student to entrepreneur.

In the quiet district of Pak Ou, Luang Prabang province, nestled near the famed Tam Ting cave, a small but vibrant food and drinks stall is drawing in locals and visitors alike. Behind the counter is Khankham PHOUTTHAVONG, a 34-year-old single mother whose journey from student to entrepreneur reflects the transformative power of vocational skills development.

After finishing secondary school, Khankham moved to Khammouane province, where she married and had two children. Having divorced, she returned to her hometown in Luang Prabang determined to build a better future for her family. 

That opportunity came when she heard, through her village head, about the Skills for tourism, agriculture and forestry (STAF) programme and its work with the Luang Prabang Technical and Vocational College. With a background in cooking and a desire to expand her skills, she enrolled in the three-month certificate level 1 in food and beverage service course, eager to learn more about beverages and customer service in particular.

During her training, Khankham honed her barista skills, learning how to prepare espressos, cappuccinos, and other speciality coffees. She mastered the basics of mixology and became adept in preparing a variety of cocktails and mocktails. She also gained hands-on experience in customer service by assisting teachers with catering events.

Despite the challenges of being away from her children—who stayed with her mother—Khankham remained focused. With the support of the STAF programme, the College provided her with uniforms, training materials, dormitory accommodation and transportation costs. She also received a small monthly stipend, easing the financial burden and allowing her to concentrate on her studies.

Just two months after graduating from her course in November 2024, Khankham opened her own small enterprise. A friend’s compliment on her cocktails sparked the idea. “People told me I was really good at it. That gave me the confidence to start my own business” she recalls.

Today, Khankham’s stall offers mocktails and sweet snacks like doughnuts. Soon, she plans to expand the menu to include papaya salad and grilled meats. Lunchtime is the busiest part of her day. She proudly explains that she is now earning around 2 million LAK per month, a significant step toward financial independence.

She is planning to grow her business – either by relocating to a better spot in the market or by opening a shop with seating at her home. “I want to grow the business and bring in my niece to help. I’ve become known in the area, and I want to build on that” she said.

Khankham is grateful for the opportunity and the training she received and actively promotes vocational skills development opportunities in her community, showcasing a flyer in front of her shop and encouraging youth to enrol.

Khankham’s story is one of transformation. With determination and the skills she gained through her training, she has built a business that supports her family and serves her community. Her journey reflects the real impact of vocational education : practical skills, meaningful work, and a future shaped by choice.

The Skills for tourism, agriculture and forestry programme is cofinanced by the Lao PDR, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Switzerland and the European Union. It is jointly implemented by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports, and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.