Eight outstanding students from Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) will travel to the United States in July to attend the Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS) - a life-changing opportunity that will empower them to become future leaders in their communities.
The summit, which brings together exceptional young people from around the world, focuses on leadership, global citizenship, and innovative problem-solving.
CCF’s students will join peers from diverse countries to learn, collaborate, and share their unique perspectives shaped by their experiences growing up in one of Phnom Penh’s most underserved communities.
GYLS was my ultimate goal this year. I am proud that I made it happen.
The students were chosen after demonstrating strong leadership potential and a deep commitment to giving back. They represent the best of CCF — young people with big dreams and even bigger hearts.
Thanks to the Tony Robbins Foundation, CCF has been sending students to the GYLS for 17 years.
This year’s summit will take place in San Diego from 26-31 July. The five-day program is open to young people aged 14-16 and features keynote speakers presenting on topics ranging from leadership styles to community contribution.
Kanika, a Grade 10 student, said gaining a place at the GYLS had been her goal for the year.
“I am proud of myself that I made it happen. I promise to bring back good knowledge and experiences to share with everyone so we can grow together,” she said.
Also going to GYLS is Samnang, who studies at CCF’s Neeson Cripps Academy, where his mum, Sophea, works as a CCF cleaner. She is bursting at pride that her son is travelling to America.
They will be joined by Seaklim, 16, who joined CCF when she was just five years old after an unsettled childhood, with her parents moving around to find work and leaving her in the care of a neighbour at one point. Her dream is to be a doctor.
Chakriya, a student at CCF’s Tomorrow Academy, wiped away tears after hearing her name called out for a place at GYLS.
“I was very excited. I wanted to tell my friends who believed in me that if I can do it, they can do it.”
This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these students
The eight CCF student ‘ambassador’s will be joined by one CCF alumni, who participated in last year’s GYLS.
“This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these students. Joining GYLS in the U.S. is so much more than just a leadership program; it’s a gateway to incredible experiences and unforgettable moments as they embark on their first journey to America,” said Yeang Sethsamprathna (Prathna), Youth Development Program Manager for CCF.
“For some, this dream has been years in the making, and witnessing their joy as it becomes a reality is profoundly moving. It fills my heart to see them finally embrace the chance they’ve longed for."
