Thong Chingcheav, an 18-year-old young woman, is the eldest daughter of a modest family of three living in Prey Boeung Village, Kampoul Commune, Phnom Penh. Chingcheav was first introduced to the Cambodian Youth Network Association (CYN) through her participation in the World Environment Day Forum in 2023. The forum, themed “Together to Protect the Environment and Natural Resources, Our Shared Treasure,” was her gateway to understanding the association’s mission. At the forum, Mr. Heng Kimhong, a motivating figure, encouraged Cambodian youth to actively engage in environmental protection, and natural resource conservation, and exercise their rights as proactive citizens. Chingcheav’s interest in CYN grew, leading her to volunteer for the first time as a youth election observer during the 2023 National Election. Following this, she attended various training sessions organized by CYN, including workshops on labor rights, digital safety management, environmental and natural resource rights, and youth forums.

As someone who once focused solely on her studies, had no clear aspirations, and struggled with shyness, Chingcheav experienced a profound transformation after joining CYN activities. She became an intern with the association in November 2023, a role that catalyzed her personal and professional growth. Reflecting on her journey, Chingcheav shared, “I’ve always loved studying but was never much of a speaker because of my shyness. I didn’t even know what I truly loved.”

Over the course of a year at CYN, Chingcheav enhanced her communication and project management skills. She gained expertise in public speaking, advocacy, community engagement, research methodologies, critical thinking, report writing, project proposal drafting, program facilitation, and understanding legal frameworks related to human rights.

Her dedication and determination to improve herself transformed her into an active youth advocate. She gained the confidence to assert her rights, speak publicly with assurance, and manage programs effectively. Her abilities shone through her facilitation of live radio broadcasts for Civil Society Voice Radio, participation in the Voice of Rights program, cycling campaigns demanding a halt to illegal logging, and events such as a 1,000-kilometer environmental bike ride. She also excelled in organizing and leading workshops, training sessions, and study tours with fellow youth and association staff.

Chingcheav proudly stated, “I’ve undergone a remarkable change—from someone shy and reserved to a confident person who can speak in public, host radio programs, and facilitate various events. I always hoped for such a transformation, and now I’ve achieved it.”

In July 2024, Chingcheav became a youth facilitator at the ASEAN Regional Workshop in Siem Reap, collaborating with the Global Youth Biodiversity Network. In September 2024, she represented CYN at the ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN People’s Forum in Timor-Leste and contributed to a workshop on enhancing ASEAN youth capacity to implement environmental rights and climate action.

Through the skills and opportunities she gained over the past year, Chingcheav has emerged as a dynamic individual. She has transitioned from a quiet girl to someone who builds strong relationships with those around her and creates innovative solutions to social issues in collaboration with youth and communities. Once unfamiliar with civil society organizations, she now understands their value and significance. She recognizes her role in exercising her rights and contributing to society.

Chingcheav has grown into a mature, adaptable, and confident young leader. CYN has helped her realize her potential, and she is now ready to serve as a catalyst for positive change. As she expressed, “Thank you, CYN, for transforming me into someone hopeful and a capable young leader. Thank you, CYN.”