VisionFund Cambodia brings optimism for desperate youths
Mr. Bora Om Seng, Executive Director of VisionFund, during the youth workshop in Battambang Province
Having been inspired and encouraged, all participants applauded as a sign of great appreciation
January 30, 2009 - 8:00am
Cambodia is dominated by youth citizens representing 70 percent of its total population of nearly 14 million, according to the Khmer Youth Association. The young group faces high rates of poverty and unemployment and other social issues, forcing many of them to feel hopeless or uncertain about their future. Acknowledging the issues, VisionFund Cambodia, in response to its cooperate social responsibilities, has sponsored or organized workshops in several provinces in recent months where speakers including human development specialists and experienced employers presented strategies for success along with inspirational stories to fill young Cambodians with hope and goal-driven attitudes.
“VisionFund Cambodia sponsors the program to provide ideas and advise for youths, most of whom are uncertain what to do for their future, and speakers’ comments can be a light—long vision— for youths who are important human resources for national development,” Executive Director Bora Om Seng told participants during a workshop in Phnom Penh.
“The workshop is very useful for students, inspiring them to struggle in life despite any obstacle or failure, and to continue to strengthen their personal development and self motivation,” 20-year-old Mao Kek says. “Previously I felt less confident and certain if I would obtain employment, but now I am much more hopeful.”
“Before attending the workshop, I was so narrow-minded about searching for jobs,” 21-year-old Seng Sotha says. “I once thought that only with experience, one could find employment. But now, I realize that some companies do not require experience, and there are many ways to get work. First, I need to develop my self, enhance my capacity and think positive about my future.”
Mao Kek and Seng Sotha are two of at least 2,000 young Cambodians who have joined VisionFund Cambodia-sponsored or organized youth workshops in Phnom Penh, Kompong Thom, Battambang, Sihanoukville and Prey Veng provinces.