Now in its second phase, the project has extended its reach to include public transportation workers. “Initially we brought together 25 of the country’s leading chefs,” explains Marisa. “It was great that everyone we contacted was so willing to get involved and help, despite some of them having their own challenges to deal with. Many of the chefs were already donating food as well. I think this is a true reflection of the compassion of the Thai people. We started with 25 chefs but now we have around 70 involved. July marked three months of this effort and in that time we have donated over 30,000 lunch boxes.” Making good use of her contacts to bring like-minded altruists together, leading artist Chatchai Puipia, who as it turns out is also an avid cook, has joined her Chef Cares project. Marisa is also on a mission to raise awareness of local talent. “I think in Thailand we have amazing chefs. In fact I truly believe they have a factor here you don’t see so much of abroad,” she says. “They are so kindhearted and mindful in what they do. They focus on sustainability, on how they source their ingredients, which makes the experience even more enriching. We are already a fine dining hub on this side of the world but I wish to make this reputation global.”
Despite carrying a prominent family name and leading a comfortable lifestyle, Marisa has always remained grounded and cognisant of the poverty that persists in Thailand and the plight of underprivileged communities across the country. “I am very aware that what my family and I have is a blessing but it is one that comes with responsibility and a duty to care for the less fortunate,” she says. Her keen understanding of the importance of giving back is something she has conscientiously instilled in her children since they were small. A reflection of this is the Build Foundation, which she and her children established together. It is a non-profit organisation that builds schools for the hill tribes and underprivileged youth in Thailand. Since its inception in 2005, it has helped to build 11 schools in needy rural communities across the country and continues to support numerous charitable organisations with funding and hands-on help from volunteers.
“There are two things that I deemed to be most important in raising my children,” Marisa shares. “Education, because that is what is going to enable you to stand on your own two feet. And humility. It is essential to me that my children understand how privileged they are and how important it is to help those in need. All four of them have been encouraged to do volunteer work since a young age.” She adds that she enjoys physically contributing in the field, which is far more effective and personally enriching. Her favourite aspect of benevolent work is getting to meet the people the foundation aids. “When you visit some of the most remote hill tribes, communities without the mod-cons we take for granted—electricity, running water and so on—and yet you see how happy everyone is, the laughter and smiles of the children, it really puts life into perspective.”
She also hopes to get even more involved opening up access to education. “When I think about all the bad things happening around the world it makes me sad,” she says. “We all have a part to play, small or big, in making the world a better place.” One social issue that tugs at her heartstrings is the plight of refugees and it is an area in which she may well become active in the future.
The Chearavanonts are a busy modern family but for the doting mother, quality time together is a must. “We try to take a family holiday once or twice a year, to get out of the city and really unwind,” she says. “My husband is very busy all the time so we try to make these trips purely leisure.” A frequent globetrotter with friends all over the world, Marisa loves to experience different cultures. “I do love travelling,” she confesses. “It broadens the mind and fosters understanding and respect amongst different peoples of the world.”
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