Helping cancer patients, one bead at a time

Bead bracelet handcrafted by Ambi.

IN A world where most 11-year-olds are navigating the joys and challenges of childhood, Thanashree Ambikai Lal from Kuala Lumpur is making a difference in the lives of young cancer patients.

Ambi, as she is fondly known, has transformed her bead-making hobby into a charitable enterprise that supports young cancer patients in Malaysia.

The creative force behind Ambi Beadery, began her journey in bead-making at the age of three.

Ambi at her first ever weekend bazaar in Brickfields in 2022. — Photos courtesy of SHEENA LAL

“I love creating various designs for different occasions such as Halloween and Christmas.

“I learned a lot of new skills beyond bead-making such as interacting with people and decorating my booths.

“It makes me happy knowing my hobby is helping others,” she said in a phone interview.

The spark that ignited her charitable journey was a school project at Eaton International School in Kajang, where she decided to donate a portion of her sales to a worthy cause.

Ambi (right) teaching a young customer how to make beads jewellery at a workshop during a weekend bazaar held in a Klang Valley mall.

Her first major beneficiary was the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), to which she gave RM1,876 last year, marking the beginning of her ongoing fundraising efforts.

Her efforts made her the youngest fundraiser in NCSM history, with a substantial portion of her sales going to NCSM’s Children’s Home of Hope, which provides free accommodation to child cancer patients.

Ambi’s mother, Sheena Lal, sought platforms to showcase her work.

“That’s when I found Get Connected, which helps individuals promote their businesses and services,” she said.

Its founder, Jay Shiva, had been instrumental in supporting her endeavours and expanding her charitable reach by participating in community events.

“I’ve always taught Ambi the importance of giving back.

NCSM’s marketing director Yeap Chong Wei (left) and individual relations manager Nurul Wahida Samsuddin receiving a donation from Ambi last year.

“From a young age, she showed a keen interest in helping those in need,” Sheena said.

Ambi Beadery showcases a range of beaded jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets, anklets, earrings and customisable pieces.

Ambi and her creations can be found at various weekend bazaars across the Klang Valley.

As she continues her entrepreneurial and charitable journey, Ambi remains focused on her mission of honing her skills while helping others.