Meet with Song Sophea

Song Sophea (pseudonym) has shown significant changes within the community.  She worked as a contract laborer, but her earnings were minimal, and her husband’s jealousy prevented her from attending any training sessions. He often checked her phone, questioning her every move, leaving her frustrated and isolated. To overcome this, Sophea made a bold decision: she brought him along to one of the training sessions. It was there that he saw the value of the opportunities available, which opened the door for her to pursue personal growth.

Through these monthly community meetings with the organization, the village began developing policies to strengthen their capabilities. These meetings, which were open to indigenous groups and included important initiatives such as the January 7th celebration and programs for people with disabilities, were central to the village’s progress. The youth were also encouraged to get involved, with PNKS shirts distributed to the community as a symbol of unity and participation.

With the support of these initiatives and through PNKS training, she transitioned from being a laborer to a farmer. She now grows potatoes and vegetables, and has even started selling lotion online to generate some income. This shift was not just economic; it was personal as well. Sophea no longer relied on her family for financial support and gradually became more confident in herself. Once hesitant to engage with those who seemed more knowledgeable, she has learned to step up and take on a leadership role in discussions. Thanks to the knowledge and skills she gained from the training, she is now able to educate children and actively participate in community projects, like road construction and environmental clean-ups.

Her vision for the future is a cleaner, more sustainable community, free from the clutter of trash and filled with more human resources to drive development. Sophea dreams of a society where domestic violence is eradicated, and young people are protected from the dangers of drug use. Her ultimate goal is for her community to thrive, providing stable employment opportunities and long-term careers. On a personal level, she aspires to enhance her skills, gain self-reliance, and continue her professional development. In the next two years, she hopes to witness significant progress in both her career and personal growth.

Looking back, Sophea realizes how far she has come. Once indifferent to society and her community, she now feels a deep sense of responsibility and care for its development. She envisions a future where people treat one another with kindness, using thoughtful words and fostering respect. This transformation is reflected not only in her interactions with others but also within her own family, where she has become more understanding and compassionate, rather than fixating on being right. She has developed perseverance and a new sense of purpose, and through her journey, she has become a powerful example of change in her community.