Wannakanok “Chompoo” Pohitaedaoh

PRESIDENT, ASSOCIATION CHILDREN AND YOUTH FOR PEACE IN SOUTHERNMOST PROVINCES OF THAILAND (LUUK RIEANG)

Industry : Advocacy

Wannakanok, or Chompoo, founded Luuk Rieang in 2002 to campaign for change re drug use, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS. The Yala-based group shifted its focus after the fatal violence in the south in 2004. Recognizing that the traumatized children of victims could potentially become ''time bombs'' of vengeance, the group worked with them to provide physical and mental remedies for prevention, protection, as well as child and youth development. Chompoo had to overcome her own fear of continuing her activism after losing her own family members in the unrest. Additionally, she faced the religious and cultural stigma in the south against LGBTQ+ members. She takes pride in providing children and women with access to education, accommodation, and livelihoods. Furthermore, she has created a safe space for LGBTQ+ members over the past 21 years. Many of the children under her care are now responsible adults making a positive impact on society—a new generation poised to develop and lead the south. To unwind, she leads Muslim women’s groups in personality and makeup workshops, which have gained popularity.