The Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), in partnership with the Department of Corrections, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime - Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (UNODC ROSEAP), and the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, officially announced the winners of the "Prison Product Development Through Youth Engagement" project.
Under the evocative theme "Through the Wall," the initiative seeks to dismantle both physical and social barriers, empowering incarcerated individuals through creative collaboration with the younger generation to produce market-driven, innovative products that facilitate a successful return to society.
Innovation for a Sustainable Second Chance
Ms. Aki Okanan, Prison Reform Representative from UNODC ROSEAP, highlighted the project’s dual mission: driving innovation and global advocacy. The project aims to create prison-made goods that appeal to modern consumers while equipping correctional officers with essential marketing skills. Furthermore, it raises international awareness regarding the critical role of offender rehabilitation and vocational training in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by effectively reducing recidivism.
Restoring Dignity Through Creativity
Speaking at the award ceremony held on February 6, 2026, at the TIJ building, Ms. Chontit Chuenurah, Director of the Office for the Bangkok Rules and Treatment of Offenders (TIJ), emphasized that the project is a cornerstone of TIJ’s mission to implement international standards within the region.
"The stigma surrounding those who have made mistakes has long been a 'wall' in our society. To help them cross that barrier, we must restore their human dignity. By weaving their stories into these products, we use the creativity of the youth to build a bridge between the prison and the outside world, replacing fear with understanding," said Ms. Chontit.
Dr. Natthee Chitsawang, Advisor to the TIJ, added that the Department of Corrections is now prioritizing "pre-release" vocational training. The focus is on ensuring that the skills learned are not just for the workshop, but are practical and scalable for independent livelihoods post-release.
The Winner: "Time-Made"
A distinguished panel of judges—comprising experts from TIJ, UNODC ROSEAP, the Central Women's Correctional Institution, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and the Embassy of Japan in Thailand—evaluated nine innovative projects from 19 students.
The top honor was awarded to "Time-Made," a project featuring intricately smocked watch straps. The judges praised the design for its compelling storytelling, market viability, and its distinct departure from traditional prison handicrafts.
From the Workshop to the Global Stage
The winning and shortlisted designs will receive comprehensive support for product development and marketing. Selected items will be produced in collaboration with partner correctional facilities and eventually showcased at the United Nations Souvenir Shop.
This initiative is more than a collaboration to create souvenirs; it is a powerful medium for storytelling. By reflecting the hard work, learning, and resilience of incarcerated individuals, the project invites society to see the value in every human being and provides the inspiration needed to offer a true second chance.
