In a neat blue shirt, Seang Socheata exudes calm, revealing a maturity that belies her age. Her gentle eyes and subtle smile hint at a journey marked by resilience, a narrative shaped by both challenges and triumphs.

Socheata stands as a testament to the impact of educational opportunities, of the kind provided by institutions like the Neeson Cripps Academy (NCA) – the flagship educational facility of the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) founded by former Hollywood executive Scott Neeson – where youths are given the chance to carve out pathways to their own futures. 

At 19, she studies international relations at a university, sponsored by AIA Cambodia, a life and health insurance provider backing CCF’s mission to offer educational and developmental opportunities to underprivileged youth in Stung Meanchey commune in Phnom Penh’s Meanchey district.

“During my university studies, I plan to explore job opportunities to provide financial support to my family while continuing my education,” Socheata says. 

A decade ago, her life transformed when she moved near a former notorious dumpsite to live with her mother.

At the age of 9, she encountered a towering stranger, his skin much paler than hers and initial doubt and fear gripped her young heart. However, witnessing other children joyfully flocking to him eased her apprehension, and soon, her worries dissipated in the warmth of newfound friendship.

Approaching him with hesitant steps, her small hand reached out tentatively. To her surprise, the stranger she had feared became a familiar face and a guiding presence in her life – Scott Neeson, the founder and executive director of CCF, whom she proudly declares her hero. 

Socheata highlights CCF’s various programmes, including providing meals to children and care centres for grandmothers.

Inspiring youth achievements

Participating in activities like mini-camps as a youth leader and speaking at annual youth talk events marked significant achievements for her. These experiences not only boosted her confidence but also encouraged other young people to share their stories and inspire others.

Socheata is among almost 2,000 students who receive support from CCF through the NCA, organisations dedicated to guiding participants towards higher education and university degrees. 

The institutions prioritise emotional support and individual care for each young person, assisting them in overcoming hardships and fostering motivation for academic success. 

“Every child, regardless of background, deserves quality education and opportunities for growth. With the right support, their potential knows no bounds,” Neeson says. 

CCF inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the insurance company to send four academy high school graduates for advanced education. In the collaboration, two students will be chosen in 2024 and another two in 2025, with CCF making the selections. 

The total value of the scholarships is $41,200, promising a substantial impact on the future of CCF’s recipients. 

“We’re excited about partnering with AIA. Their culture and values resonate with CCF, and their dedication to Cambodian youth closely aligns with our mission,” Neeson said during the MoU signing ceremony on January 30 at the NCA.

Jane Tay, AIA’s CEO, shared her pleasure and excitement as she stood before the audience to announce the signing of the sponsorship agreement with CCF. 

“This relationship aims to sponsor underprivileged children, offering opportunities for healthier, longer and better lives through sports and education,” she says. 

Empowered academic journeys

Chhean Samphors, 18, now in her first year at the Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE) in Phnom Penh, majoring in finance and banking, reflects on her journey with CCF since 2010, expressing gratitude to Neeson for transforming her life.

“I’m delighted to study both Khmer and English alongside my friends. I’m grateful for the personal growth nurtured through CCF’s education; these new experiences surpass my imagination,” she says.

In 2022, the children’s fund partnered with private education provider Mengly J Quach Education (MJQE) to empower underprivileged students.

The collaboration focuses on teacher training, scholarships, study materials and daily living support for nearly 800 beneficiaries, showcasing CCF’s dedication to enhancing education and well-being for Cambodian children.

In 2020, the organisation joined forces with eMoney, a local financial service provider operated jointly by telecoms firm MetFone and MB Bank, for a six-month fundraising campaign.

The initiative specifically supported science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education programmes at the NCA, aiming to provide exceptional education and support for improved future opportunities for these young individuals. 

“With nearly 2,000 students under its guidance, the NCA observes promising progress, with 60 per cent of the students advancing towards higher education, on track to complete university,” Neeson tells The Post.

The school, catering to 300-350 students, prioritises free education in STEM subjects. The facility boasts modern classrooms, labs and recreational areas, fostering high-quality education and a path to careers for the community’s children.

CCF students have achieved notable success, earning scholarships to Trinity College of the University of Melbourne in Australia. These scholarships reflect the collaborative efforts of CCF and the college, providing quality education and transformative opportunities for underprivileged Cambodians.

Success beyond circumstances

By July 2023, nine CCF students had received full scholarships to study at Trinity, including recent recipients Bun Malita and Len Leang.

Their scholarships were awarded based on exceptional abilities and dedication, determined through rigorous tests and interviews. This life-changing opportunity allows them to pursue higher education at a prestigious institution, marking a significant milestone in both their personal and academic journeys.

A notable graduate of the CCF-Trinity partnership is Sophy Ron. Formerly residing and working at the former notorious Stung Meanchey garbage dump, she triumphed over challenges to graduate from the University of Melbourne in 2022, majoring in media communications and international relations. After gaining work experience in Australia, she plans to contribute to CCF upon returning to Cambodia. 

“These students have not only succeeded but they’ve excelled,” remarks Ben Waymire, senior regional manager at Trinity.

“I thought it was time to come together and celebrate some of the achievements of the students. I think it’s cause for celebration and to recognise the achievement of such a fantastic project,” he adds. 

These narratives showcase the profound influence of education and the opportunities forged by partnerships like the ones between the CCF, AIA, MJQE, Trinity and the Cambodian government.

They underscore the potential to transform lives and break the cycle of poverty through access to quality education and international scholarships.