As the smallest indigenous tribe in Taiwan, the Saisiyat are always tenacious in confronting all difficulties. Many Saisiyat folk stories revolve around the punishment of the lazy. Awai says that as a small tribe, the Saisiyat people must be strong and hardworking just to survive. She teaches young members of the tribe how to make bamboo utensils. She also brings modern art styles into her works in hopes of making her people more proud to be Saisiyat. Her works are popular both at home and abroad.