Nhep Pisal, the third of four siblings in a farming family from Kampong Cham province, is a young man on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. While pursuing a Master’s in Political Science and working as a part-time teacher, Pisal grappled with a lack of self-confidence and limited engagement with social issues. He was a quiet individual, hesitant to share his views and largely detached from environmental concerns.

Before joining the Cambodian Youth Network Association (CYN), Pisal’s self-confidence was a mere 20%. He spent most of his time studying alone, rarely venturing into social circles. His awareness of environmental issues, particularly climate change, was minimal. He admits, “I was a quiet person, not very talkative, and did not participate much in social activities. I lacked confidence in my own rights, especially the right to participate in protecting natural resources.”

However, a pivotal turning point arrived in early 2024 when Pisal embarked on a six-week community internship in Preah Vihear province through CYN. This transformative experience sparked a profound shift within him.

He began to question the prevailing development model, recognizing the need to prioritize environmental sustainability alongside economic growth. “I think that economic development is still the first thing,” he reflects, “but we must consider the environmental impact as well as social issues. If this development affects the environment, we must consider how to minimize the impact.”

This newfound awareness translated into tangible lifestyle changes. Pisal embraced eco-friendly practices, reducing plastic consumption and opting for reusable water bottles. He also overcame his reticence, becoming more vocal about his opinions and actively engaging with his community. He even began sharing his knowledge about environmental conservation and teaching English to local children.

Through CYN’s capacity-building programs, particularly the youth camp coordinator role, Pisal gained valuable leadership experience, further boosting his confidence. He now views CYN as a “warm home,” a supportive environment where young people can hone their skills and realize their full potential.

Pisal’s journey exemplifies the power of personal transformation. From a quiet observer, he has evolved into an engaged citizen, committed to environmental sustainability and social justice. He aspires to become an effective educator, imparting his knowledge and inspiring others to embrace a more sustainable and equitable future. His story serves as a powerful reminder that personal growth and societal change are inextricably linked and that every individual has the potential to make a difference.