Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Ramona Co.Ltd
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
A Multifaceted Leader in Business, Education, and Social Empowerment; Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul’s inspiring journey is marked by her relentless dedication to education, ethical business, and social impact.
Academic and Professional Growth After completing her studies at the University of Exeter, Dr. Navarat began her career as an HR Analyst at ExxonMobil in Thailand. Seeking further academic and professional development, she moved to Australia in 2005 to pursue a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA). During this time, she worked with the South Australian Education Department and held roles as a researcher and business manager at the University of South Australia, followed by a position at the University of Adelaide. Her academic journey was balanced with her role as a mother of two, during which she also began teaching as a visiting lecturer in her hometown of Bangkok, Thailand.
Leadership in Business and Social Impact Returning to Thailand, Dr. Navarat took over her family’s real estate business, managing it with innovation and a commitment to sustainability. Alongside this, she founded RaMoNa Fashion, an ethical fashion brand empowering rural and disadvantaged women. RaMoNa Fashion creates handcrafted items that connect local artisans with global markets, including Thailand, Australia, India, and Canada. Her work with RaMoNa Fashion has earned her international recognition, including the prestigious First Runner-Up award in the SME Champion category by UN Women Thailand and Asia-Pacific in 2024.
Social and Philanthropic Initiatives Dr. Navarat’s impact extends far beyond business. She founded the Helping Mothers Create Future project, which later evolved into the Metta Anand Foundation. These initiatives empower mothers and provide essential medical care through her network of dedicated volunteers, both in Thailand and India. In addition, she serves as Vice President of the Follow Father Footsteps Foundation, focusing on educating entrepreneurs in sustainability and ethical practices. Her commitment to fostering responsible business conduct aligns with her vision of creating a positive impact on communities and the environment.
Research and Advocacy Dr. Navarat also launched a research business to deepen her understanding of ethical entrepreneurship and contribute to the development of sustainable practices. Her work as a researcher complements her mission of integrating academic insights with real-world solutions for social and economic challenges.
Global Recognition and Legacy Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul’s diverse accomplishments exemplify her ability to bridge business, academia, and philanthropy. Her initiatives, whether empowering women through ethical fashion or supporting mothers and entrepreneurs, reflect her unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and sustainable world. Her journey continues to inspire, proving that with vision and compassion, one can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul: A Life Rooted in Purpose and Growth For Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul, work is far more than a career—it is a profound avenue to help herself, uplift others, and promote positive values within a society increasingly shaped by materialism and consumerism. Her dedication to making a difference stems from a desire to nurture a sense of purpose and integrity in her community, fostering a culture of compassion and sustainability. What drives Dr. Navarat most is the opportunity to connect with people from diverse walks of life. Each interaction, she believes, is a chance to learn, to be inspired, and to grow. These experiences not only enrich her perspective but also fuel her personal and professional development. “I grow every day from what I work,” she shares, reflecting her deep commitment to self-improvement. For her, work is not just about achieving goals but about evolving as a person—gaining wisdom from challenges and insights from others. This philosophy of continuous growth and meaningful contribution is evident in every aspect of Dr. Navarat’s journey, from her efforts to empower mothers and artisans to her leadership in sustainability and ethical business practices. Through her work, she demonstrates how purpose-driven endeavors can transform lives, inspire communities, and create lasting change.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
Where Passion for Learning and Creativity Blossomed Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul cherishes her time at the University of Exeter not only for the academic achievements but also for the joy of learning fostered by inspiring teachers and supportive friends. It was here that she discovered her love for creative subjects and the profound impact of innovative teaching methods. One memorable experience was her introduction to change management, a subject that sparked her interest in navigating and leading transformation. The lecturer’s unique approach to teaching—encouraging students to create mind maps—was a revelation for Dr. Navarat. She recalls the excitement of trying this method for the first time and how it enhanced her understanding and retention of complex ideas. The mind-mapping technique became a pivotal tool in her personal and professional growth, one she continues to use to this day. It symbolizes the power of creative thinking and how the right guidance can leave an enduring impact. For Dr. Navarat, Exeter was not just about academic learning; it was about embracing creativity, building connections, and cultivating skills that would shape her life and career. These cherished memories continue to inspire her, reminding her of the transformative power of education.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
Why Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul Chose Exeter Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul’s decision to study at the University of Exeter was thoughtfully guided by a combination of academic excellence and the charm of its location. The university’s curriculum and degree structure perfectly aligned with her aspirations, offering a comprehensive and well-rounded program that promised both academic rigor and practical learning. Beyond the course itself, the serene and picturesque setting of Exeter played a significant role in her choice. The small-town atmosphere, with its pleasant and calm environment, provided an ideal backdrop for focused study and personal growth. Exeter’s unique blend of academic prestige and tranquil surroundings offered her a balanced and enriching experience that left a lasting impression. Her time at Exeter not only fulfilled her academic goals but also became a cherished chapter filled with achievement, inspiration, and growth, all set against the backdrop of this idyllic university town..
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Exeter: A Journey of Growth At the University of Exeter, Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul learned the art of socializing, building meaningful connections, and applying business concepts to real-world scenarios. This blend of practical learning and personal growth laid the foundation for her future success.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Dr. Navarat’s Advice to Current Exeter Students “Make the most of your time at Exeter,” advises Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul. “Enjoy your studies, savor the leisure and charm of the town, and connect deeply with your friends and lecturers. Start building your portfolio early—it’s never too soon to prepare for your future.”
What are your plans for the future?
Dr. Navarat’s Vision for the Future Dr. Navarat Sachayansrisakul plans to continue building her businesses, projects, and social initiatives, focusing on growth and meaningful impact. Her approach is to embrace each moment, seize opportunities, and tackle challenges with resilience, knowing that overcoming them is key to progress.
