California Dreaming

After two unsuccessful attempts, Mengchou never gave up on his dream of attending the Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS) in the U.S.

This year, his determination paid off. On his third application, Mengchou was selected to join seven young leaders from Cambodian Children’s Fund travelling to San Diego, California, for the 2026 event.

Mengchou, 16, was close to tears after hearing he had achieved his aim at last.

“I am so happy that I made it happen after not making it last year,” says Mengchou.

Mengchou couldn’t wait to share the news with his mum, who has been raising the children on her own since their father left.

“She will be so excited for me. She always believed that I could win a place,” he says.

After missing out twice before, he spent the past year strengthening his leadership skills and preparing a stronger application, determined to earn his place.

“I never thought of abandoning my dream. I had the commitment to keep trying. I hope to get knowledge to bring back to share with others,” says Mengchou, a Grade 10 student in CCF’s Neeson Cripps Academy high school.

“Mengchou applied for three consecutive years—never wavering, never giving up—until that 'not yet' finally became a 'YES.' Seeing that moment is nothing short of magical," said Yeang Sethsamprathna, Youth Development Program Manager for CCF.

With aspirations to work at NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) one day, Mengchou is also hoping the trip to the US - his first time going overseas - will give him an insight into American culture.

Mengchou, his fellow CCF ambassadors, and alumni will represent their community and country, connecting with young changemakers from around the world.

GYLS brings young leaders together for hands-on service, leadership exercises, and inspiring talks from global speakers. Participants explore their strengths, set goals, and commit to making a difference.

The five-day program is open to young people aged 14-16. In 2025, more than 400 youth from 49 countries joined the Summit. This year’s summit will take place in San Diego from 7-12 July.

Thanks to the Tony Robbins Foundation, CCF has been sending students to the GYLS for 18 years.

Also attending GYLS is Sreynith, 16, a Grade 11 student who also overcame disappointment last year after missing out on a place, and clinched a spot this time around.

“I felt so nervous beforehand because I did not expect to be chosen,” Sreynith admits. “I haven’t told my family yet that I have applied again. Now, I will go home and tell them I have passed GYLS.”

Sreynith is looking forward to going on an aeroplane for the first time and connecting with young people from other countries and cultures.

Joining her is Sokha Pich, a true CCF star. As well as GYLS, she’s also heading to Singapore next month as captain of an U16 girls’ football team featuring four CCF players. Last year, she won a CCF photography competition, showcasing her creativity, athleticism, and leadership. Multi-talented and inspiring, Sokha Pich is a force to watch.

Kanika, 16, who is returning to GYLS as one of two CCF alumni after attending last year, is planning to keep the news from her parents for a special moment - her birthday on 31 March.

“I will not tell them now. I will surprise them,” she says.

For CCF students, attending GYLS is a unique opportunity—an incredible chance for young people who have grown up facing some of Cambodia’s toughest challenges to step onto a global stage and share their stories.

“Every year, announcing our GYLS finalists brings a wave of emotion, and my hand was shaking while holding the result letters. I am incredibly proud of these young leaders who turned every challenge into a stepping stone toward this once-in-a-lifetime experience - embarking on the journey to America," said Yeang Sethsamprathna.