Thana Kunaraksvong

FOUNDER, KANVELA CRAFT CHOCOLATE

Industry : Business

Thana embarked on his professional journey as a financial advisor but experienced career burnout, prompting him to explore alternative paths. Driven by his interest in agriculture, he consulted with orchard owners in Chiang Mai and eventually chose to venture into cacao farming due to its minimal chemical requirements and to support farmers. Despite his initial lack of knowledge, Thana conducted extensive research and, through trial and error, succeeded in cultivating high-quality cocoa beans. This accomplishment fueled his aspiration to launch his own chocolate brand. KanVela Chocolate, his brainchild, features signature chocolates with unexpected Thai flavors such as Guava with Salt and Chilli Bon Bon and Bon Bon Pandan Custard. KanVela chocolate has not only been served on Thailand''s national airline but has also garnered recognition through various awards. The accolades include a bronze in the International Chocolate Award (Asia Pacific) 2020, a bronze and a silver, along with the International Rising Star Award from the Academy of Chocolate Award 2021. Thana takes pride in creating a premium Thai chocolate that supports local farming communities committed to sustainable orchard management.