Rom Yary, the second of four siblings from Kandal province, was once a young woman plagued by self-doubt. Growing up in a restrictive environment where freedom of expression was stifled, she struggled with low self-esteem and social anxiety. The stigma surrounding her physical appearance further exacerbated her insecurities, leaving her feeling isolated and afraid to engage with the world. “I was a person who did not like to speak in front of others because I did not have the courage, I did not have the confidence,” Yary recalls, “because I was looked down upon because of my body.”

This environment, coupled with the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of practical application during her environmental science studies, further eroded her confidence. Yary felt stifled, unable to express her own opinions and explore her potential. However, everything changed when she encountered the Cambodian Youth Network Association (CYN) in February 2023. The warm welcome and supportive environment at CYN provided a much-needed respite from the constraints of her previous life. Through a series of training courses on essential work skills, legal studies, and environmental protection, Yary began to blossom. She gained valuable knowledge and practical skills, gradually overcoming her fears and building her confidence.

A pivotal moment came with her participation in the 1000-kilometer cycling event for the environment. This challenging experience pushed her beyond her perceived limitations, instilling in her a newfound sense of self-belief. Emboldened by her newfound confidence, Yary actively engaged with her community, co-founding a women’s group called “Bee Women” and collaborating with other youth groups on campaigns against gender-based violence. Perhaps the most significant achievement was her successful completion of a research report on forest by-products and local community economies in Preah Vihear province, which was subsequently published. This accomplishment not only validated her academic pursuits but also solidified her professional trajectory.

Today, Yary is a thriving young professional, working as an assistant at The Partnership for Environment and Development. She attributes her success to the invaluable experiences and skills she gained through her involvement with CYN. “The staff is project assistants whose needs are all that I learned from the CYN, and I can say that the CYN is a big contributor to the workplace today,” she states with pride.

Looking ahead, Yary hopes to continue her research and inspire other young people in her province to pursue their dreams and contribute to a more sustainable future. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of personal growth and the importance of creating supportive environments where young people can thrive.