Medicinal plants such as kaffir, Tinospora crispa, aloe vera and Tiliacora triandra are just some of the natural ingredients that Nhim Sorida uses in her homemade soaps and shampoos.
Originally from the village of Pongro, in the town of Serei Saophoan, Banteay Meanchey province, Sorida became interested in cosmetics during a trip to Thailand in 2019, while watching a friend make beauty products from plants.
"Why not Cambodia?" she said to herself, aware of the abundance of natural plant resources in her country.
Sorida originally intended her shampoos, conditioners and soaps for the exclusive use of her family. But she soon realised that her products had potential.
She also discovered the dangers of imported cosmetics of dubious origin or quality:
"I realised that it was important to ensure that our products were safe, of high quality and could hold their own in the market," she says.
Motivated by her new insights, she quit her job in Phnom Penh to devote herself to her passion. As word spread and sales increased, the encouragement of her friends and loyal customers spurred her on. Today, her range has expanded to include soap, brown rice shampoo and even a turmeric conditioner.
Sorida insists on using mainly local medicinal plants for her creations. Although her shop has only a handful of employees, she places great emphasis on sourcing raw materials from the local community. She even grows some of the ingredients herself. Keen to innovate, Sorida plans to launch a wider range of products.
As far as official support is concerned, she has registered with the provincial Department of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation and the Ministry of Commerce. Last year, the "One village, one product" initiative enabled her to raise the profile of her products.
Sorida's dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she competed for the Best Entrepreneur Award, organised jointly by the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia and the Junior Chamber International (JCI Cambodia). She was one of the top 10 finalists.
In 2021, Sorida took part in a regional entrepreneurship competition, up against competitors from Battambang, Siem Reap, Pursat and her home province of Banteay Meanchey. She came second in the competition.
Nhel Bunthoeun, Director of the Provincial Department of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, was full of praise for Sorida. His team has personally inspected its operations and confirmed the natural processing of its products.
Mr Bunthoeun is full of praise for Sorida, saying:
"She is an exemplary Cambodian who demonstrates creativity. In addition to her innovative spirit, she is making a significant contribution to our country's economic growth. She has also undoubtedly become an expert in her field".
Kim Sarom - The Post
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