Before I headed to Europe for the summer, Jason De Luca asked me to help on a passion project of his to support Frances Watthanaya, Founder & Executive Director of Wor. Watthana ค่ายมวย ว. วัฒนะ Muay Thai Gym and Scott Hirano Photography a world class Combat Sports Photographer to learn about their relationship and the work Frances has done which has impacted a small, local community in northern Thailand. Brad Corbet and the team at Motionworks created a great atmosphere for my first time in the interviewers’ chair. Thanks!
As the bard says,
Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.
William Shakespeare
What struck me the most about Frances’ story is the way that starting the gym and now building the house was not part of a grand plan, just a series of steps that took her to this point. A great example of the dots joining at a later point. It really shows the importance of being open to opportunities when it comes to your ikigai, to saying yes, and to trying things – done is better than perfect and perfect is the enemy of execution! Greatness was thrust upon her and she rose to the occasion.
Frances’ love for the sport of Muay Thai led her to Thailand and ultimately led her to her life’s passion of helping the local children in this small, rural town in Thailand become more confident and disciplined through Muay Thai and her gym. But more than that, she has become a Saint to lead the community in a new direction and give hope and support to local kids who are struggling in a very tough environment. She empowers them to become more confident, more disciplined and most importantly, believe in themselves to achieve their goals, all through the support of Muay Thai, her coaching and the safe environment her gym provides.
The purpose of the interview was to highlight the work she has done and to seek support for raising money to build a new gym to continue to support these kids and their dreams.
Regardless of your interest in Muay Thai, Thailand or martial arts, this interview is a just a great experience to learn how anyone can help change the lives of others in very small ways. Frances has helped people in a very big way so all I ask is that you please watch this interview in its entirety and consider helping her cause. Thanks for your support.
To learn about the fundraising efforts and to help support their cause, please visit:https://www.gofundme.com/help-build-us-a-home
To learn more about Frances, her gym and the kids, please visit: https://www.worwatthana.com/
To learn more about the work Scott Hirano has done with Frances as well as other projects, please visit: