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Socheat Ly, Cambodia
Jason is a media and communications professional focusing on visual arts, justice advocacy, and social impact in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Jason graduated from the Royal University of Phnom Penh with a degree in Media and Communication. With a strong foundation in Vietnamese and Cambodian cultures, cultivated in a bilingual household, Jason has spent the last three years specializing in visual communications to create positive social change and raise awareness on key societal issues.
Through his work with Labor Plus, a youth initiative dedicated to making labor rights and law accessible to young employees, Jason uses his skills in communication to deliver labor rights education in a fun and straightforward way, transforming complex legal information into engaging, understandable content. His goal is to deepen his understanding of visual storytelling and continue advocating for justice by using communication to highlight critical issues that will shape the future of Cambodia.
Men Rathteapy, Cambodia
Miss Men Rathteapy graduated with honors from the Royal University of Phnom Penh, holding a degree in Sociology. She is currently dedicated to empowering urban poor communities and youth by encouraging their engagement in social activities, raising awareness, and building leadership skills. Through leading campaigns focused on human rights and environmental issues, she works to create positive change within a community. She believes that a better society is built through the unity of its citizens and the shared responsibility to take action.
Alisa Ieng, Cambodia
Ms. Alisa Ieng is a senior International Relations student at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, Royal University of Phnom Penh. With a strong passion for research, she actively contributes as a Research Associate at the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies (CCRS), where she focuses on ASEAN relations, Cambodia-Japan ties, the US-China rivalry, and environmental sustainability. Alisa has also demonstrated leadership in volunteering and organizing events, including International Drug Day and CCRS public lectures and regional seminars. Beyond academia, Alisa is a passionate debater, winning the 19th Annual IFL Debate Forum 2024, and serves as a member of the IISPP International Relations Club. Her cross-cultural exchange experience includes AUN-VNUHCM Summer Program on Climate Change, Asia Kakehashi Project in Japan, and UNESCO-UNITWIN Advanced Workshop and Hackathon in South Korea. She believes that “civic engagement is not just about participation—it’s about taking responsibility to create meaningful change."
Sarath Vechyeny, Cambodia
I am Sarath Vechyeny, a third-year student pursuing degrees in Computer Science and English at the Royal University of Phnom Penh. Currently, I work as a Digital and Communication Assistant at one local company, where I focus on enhancing digital outreach and communication strategies to promote civic engagement within my community. I actively participate in initiatives that emphasize digital literacy and education, mentoring young individuals in technology and communication skills. I believe that effective communication is crucial for fostering community connections and driving social change. My goal is to make a positive impact through my work and academic pursuits, empowering others and contributing to a more inclusive society.
Horn Sokleang, Cambodia
Ms. Horn Sokleang graduated with a Bachelor of International Relations from the Institute of Foreign Languages, Royal University of Phnom Penh, and from Haprswell. She is the Learning and Youth Development Coordinator at the Cambodian Youth Network Association. She focuses on capacity building, empowerment, and mobilizing youth for social and environmental justice. Her prior experience includes participation on the Cambodian National Organizing Committee for the 2023 ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN People’s Forum in Timor-Leste. From 2020–2023, she volunteered with a USAID Cambodia Green Future as the green group “Niron” for social behavior change campaigns targeting luxury wood furniture consumption, bushmeat demand, and littering. Furthermore, as a member of the Purple Youth Group, she spearheaded a running campaign commemorating International Women’s Day and a cycling campaign in support of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in 2023.
Bilita Mao, Cambodia
Mrs. Bilita Mao is a senior International Relations student at Paragon International University Cambodia and a former intern at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Selected as a Student Ambassador during her sophomore year, she helped represent her university and support fellow students. Bilita’s experience extends beyond campus: she served as Public Relations Officer for The Young SEAkers Cambodia Chapter, volunteered as an emcee for UNICEF’s “Ladies in Tech” program, and created content for her university’s Facebook page as a graphic designer. She has also represented Cambodia at international events like the ASEAN Youth Dialogue and ASEAN Future Leaders Summit. Passionate about helping others, Bilita shares valuable insights on TikTok, offering advice on university life, career choices, internships, and exploring new opportunities. Her motto, "I know, I share," fuels her desire to inspire others and continue growing both personally and professionally in every way she can.
Chea Pichdalen, Cambodia
Ms. Chea Pichdalen is a Bachelor of International Relations graduate. With an enthusiasm for sustainable development, she has been nurturing her proficiency through internships at the UNDP. She supported small businesses, including those in the agri-food sector, to accelerate their business in e-commerce and social commerce during the post-pandemic. Subsequently, she worked as a junior project officer at Swisscontact on an agroecology and safe food systems project that promoted climate-smart practices for farmers. Currently, she is a programme assistant for the School Feeding Programme at the World Food Programme, supporting the linkage of safe food commodities produced by local agricultural cooperatives for school meals. Dalen also contributed to various community projects, including Bag2Schools, Sharing of Smile, Together Narrowing Digital Gaps, and Youth Internet Governance Forum. She is positive that youths can contribute meaningfully to the increasing of safe food circulating in local markets and the improvement of farmers’ livelihoods.
Doung Ratanaksambat, Cambodia
Mr. Doung Ratanaksambat, graduated with Bachelor degree of Software Engineering from the Kirirom Institute of technology. Doung was actively involved in his community college activities, such as developing software to streamline manual operations. He also served as photographer for his college newspaper club. During his college years, he actively participated in many startup competitions and represented his school in various events. He is currently a professional software engineer in an international firm that helps bring business ideas to end users. With 3 years of working experience, he has gained valuable insights and knowledge from working with industries such as healthcare, restaurants, hotels, and more. He is a proactive person who consistently seeks opportunities to enhance his skills and contribute to team success. With strong passion in technology and business, he is dedicated to delivering high-quality solutions that address real-world challenges.
Phikunkeo Vatanak, Cambodia
Ms. Phikunkeo Vatanak is a junior majoring in International Relations at Paragon International University. Phikunkeo is actively engaged in extracurricular activities, aiming to make a positive impact on society. In 2024, Phikunkeo served as Secretary-General of the Paragon International University Model United Nations Club. Furthermore, Phikunkeo recently completed her internship with the EnergyLab organization in December 2024. Phikunkeo is now a member of cohort 12 of the U.S. Ambassador’s Youth Council in Cambodia, holding a position as a Treasurer of the executive committee for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. She believes that “innovation is always the key for a positive change in society.”
Lakshmi Sokha PICH, Cambodia
Ms. Lakshmi Sokha PICH is an Advisory Associate at one of the Big Four accounting firms, having earned her Bachelor's in Accounting and Finance from CamEd Business School. Her passion for digital education and inclusive development has inspired her to participate in various initiatives. Previously, Lakshmi was part of the management team for the CamEd Cybersecurity Club, where her financial knowledge helped her facilitate events that promote digital literacy among her peers. Currently, as a Program Manager at Circular Digital Lab Cambodia on a voluntary basis, she leads programs like the Junior Leaders Program and the Leaders for Inclusive and Sustainable Digital Development Fellowship Program. Through these initiatives, she manages project funds to ensure resources are allocated strategically to empower young changemakers with essential skills in project management and enable them to advocate for digital transformation.
Samnang Sok, Cambodia
Mr. Samnang Sok, a 4th-year AI engineering student at CamTech University, is the co-founder and CTO of PrimPharma, a digital health startup awarded seed funding by the National Incubation Center Cambodia. He co-led Reanpiluy 2.0, a financial literacy project supported by the National Bank of Cambodia, educating rural students on digital banking and online fraud. He is also the founder of TechSpire, a cybersecurity awareness initiative supported by Youth Assembly and department of anti-cyber crime, Ministry of interior, which brings e-safety education to rural schools. Passionate about leveraging technology for social impact, Samnang empowers young people to address pressing issues, improve healthcare, and create a better society through innovative solutions and community-driven projects. He believes in the transformative power of youth to drive sustainable change and bridge gaps in digital literacy and education.
Sengheng Lay, Cambodia
Mr. Sengheng Lay is a passionate advocate of the Cambodian community and a junior in Banking and Finance at Paragon International University. Currently interning with Chemonics Cambodia, he wishes to use his innovative skills in other activities which will be advantageous to him and society at large. Sengheng has made his marks in diverse influential projects by being a member of the Finance Core Team of Little Dreamers and Tep Kaosol Khnhom, and also of the Public Relations Core Team for Derm3. He also led the Paint For Dreams project which he balanced with his other commitments. Sengheng feels that his engagements enable him to progress towards a better version of himself, while at the same time assisting others and providing a positive change
Pa Lyheng, Cambodia
My journey as a dedicated junior law student, I have a deep passion for advocating for equality and equity within our communities. With a focus on social justice and governance, I actively engage in volunteer efforts that empower youth and promote sustainable practices. My involvement in Debate and Public Speaking, along with my participation in Moot Court Competitions, have not only sharpened my advocacy and collaboration skills but also deepened my commitment to creating inclusive and diverse communities. I always remind myself that "True progress begins when we empower every voice to stand for equality and equity." Together, let’s inspire positive change and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to shine. Your voice matters—let’s make it heard!
Sovann Tepy, Cambodia
Ms. Tepy Sovann is a fourth-year university student pursuing a degree in International Relations, with a strong academic focus on governance, foreign policy, and international law. She currently serves as an Assistant to the National Assembly Advisory Council and a Research Officer for Angkor Social Innovation Park, where she contributes to projects supporting SMEs, women’s empowerment, and sustainable entrepreneurship. Through her academic work and professional experience, she has engaged in policy analysis, governance reforms, and international affairs discussions. She has also participated in negotiation simulations, research projects, and initiatives promoting social innovation and sustainable development. Passionate about bridging policy research with real-world governance challenges, she aims to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and institutional reform. She believes that strong governance and informed policies are essential to addressing contemporary global challenges
Hengsey Sreng, Cambodia
Mr. Hengsey Sreng is a research enthusiast and a senior student majoring in International Relations at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, RUPP. He currently serves as a research associate at the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies. Hengsey’s research interests lie in public policy and international relations, with a particular focus on security in the Indo-Pacific region. He is also the co- founder of Jong Deoung, a youth-led project dedicated to enhancing youth awareness of civic engagement. Additionally, Hengsey is a former program intern at Transparency International Cambodia. Alongside his academic and professional work, Hengsey has volunteered extensively, particularly in organizing events aimed at promoting community involvement and raising awareness to youth.
Lisa Chheang, Cambodia
As a student majoring in political science and public administration, I am gifted with a strong knowledge of the diverse governance systems and societal dynamics as well as understanding social issues which is why Society and Government is my first preferred theme. As the director of Cambodia Speech and Debate Association, IISPP Political Science Club President, I have been refining my skills in policy evaluation and diplomacy as well as solving critical societal issues as a strong advocate and leader within the political framework that goes along in society with experiences as a former champion of the ASEAN Voice Climate Change Debate and ASEAN Youth Debate which showcase my commitment to addressing pressing societal issues through dialogue and cooperation.
Regarding civic engagement, my service as an Ace student ambassador and my participation in programs such as the Korea-Cambodia youth exchange program and the National Aspiration Project demonstrate my commitment to promoting intercultural understanding and community development which is relevant to eliminate boundaries and open paths for relevant stakeholders regardless of backgrounds to make powerful inclusive decisions. My biggest achievement is winning the diplomacy award at the ASEAN Foundation Model ASEAN Meeting Plus Japan which attest to my capacity to make a meaningful contribution to public debate and policy-making procedures.