At a moving ceremony in Phnom Penh, two remarkable Cambodian Children’s Fund students were awarded Trinity College scholarships — joining a growing community of Cambodian changemakers studying in Australia.
On November 11, dreams quietly turned into reality for Sreynoiy and Rita, both aged 17, as they were named Trinity Scholars - the newest recipients in a life-changing partnership between Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF), Trinity College, and the University of Melbourne.
Thank you to everyone who believed in me
Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF), Trinity College, and the University of Melbourne.
“I am really excited and happy. Thank you to everyone for giving me this opportunity. It means so much to me,” said Sreynoiy, who dreams of becoming a software engineer. She spoke of how her perspective may change as she steps into a whole new world.
Rita’s scholarship came as an unexpected but perfect turn of fate. Already enrolled in a software engineering program at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), she received a last-minute call that the Bachelor of Science program at Trinity had opened.
Within hours, she completed English and Math tests and an interview — and was selected.
"It was a surprise; I did not expect to win a scholarship. I am grateful for the huge opportunity,” Rita shared. “Everything is hard. Nothing is easy. If we want to earn it, we need to try hard.”
“My Dad is happy for me because my dream has come true. My mum became emotional because she has to part ways with me, but she knows I have been dreaming of this and supports me."
Ben Waymire, Senior Regional Manager of Trinity College, reflected on the partnership's growth since 2017. “Tonight, we are going to add two more students to that total… 16 students who have come through Trinity College in this important project.”
Many have gone on to study at the University of Melbourne, with several already graduating and building careers.
Claire Bingley, Regional Manager International Markets at the University of Melbourne, spoke passionately about this collaboration: “We are not only recognising achievement, but celebrating the power of education and what can happen when people and communities work together to open doors of opportunity.”
Claire and her colleague, Jerome Otton, Student Recruitment Officer for the University’s Faculty of Business and Economics, visited CCF for the first time to see for themselves the transformative impact of its work.
“I think we both feel truly humble and proud of the small part the University of Melbourne is playing in this partnership and the impact it has had and will continue to have.
“CCF doesn’t just change the lives of individual students. It’s creating a generation of young Cambodians who are giving back, leading, and shaping the future of their country,” said Claire Bingley.
It changed my life, opening new doors to a new world
Former CCF Trinity scholars Sophy and Sovannry, who have recently returned to Cambodia after graduating from the University of Melbourne, shared heartfelt reflections on their journeys from Phnom Penh to Melbourne.
“It changed my life, opening new doors to a new world,” said Sophy, 28, who was the first CCF Trinity Scholar in 2017. She is now working in marketing for a growing restaurant chain in Phnom Penh and teaching privately, supporting herself and living independently.
“I learned how to be resilient. I learned to be courageous and step out of my comfort zone. I realised there was so much more to learn than just being in one spot. I found my own path in life.”
Many of the objectives CCF strives for are very similar to those we strive for as a government as well
Fellow CCF Trinity Scholar, Sovannry, who was in the second cohort, also urged the two new scholars to make the most of every moment in Melbourne.
“As I stand here as someone who has been through the journey that you are about to do, I can tell you that you are about to begin one of the most exciting and transformative chapters of your life. Make the most of the opportunities, study very hard, and enjoy yourself.”
Australian Ambassador to Cambodia, Derek Yip, placed the moment in a broader context, highlighting the deep history of education between the two nations. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he reminded the room: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
“Many of the objectives CCF strives for are very similar to those we strive for as a government as well. I am really pleased to be part of this joyous occasion with CCF as we celebrate opportunity, transformation, and the rewards of determination, resilience, and excellence demonstrated by tonight’s scholarship awardees.”
Scott Neeson, Founder and Executive Director, spoke of gratitude for the supporters, educators, and long-time friends of CCF, the Cripps family, who have supported the CCF Trinity Scholar program.
You are joining a growing network of Cambodian scholars shaping the future of their country
From Phnom Penh to Melbourne, their stories are only just beginning.
“You are now joining a growing network of Cambodian scholars who are excelling in Melbourne and beyond. Students are not only thriving academically but also serving as ambassadors for Cambodia’s bright future. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you and how you will, in turn, lead others as you rise,” said Claire Bingley from Melbourne University.
