At just one year old, Chhorn Sovandeth contracted polio, leaving him unable to walk. Today, at 55, he is the Executive Director of the Kratie Disabled People Organization (KDPO), an NGO dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in Cambodia.

“When I grew up, even though disability has not stopped me from doing things, I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles. Our society was filled with discrimination, which has been a common mindset in Cambodia,” Sovandeth said. “People didn’t see our potential beyond pity and rarely gave us opportunities to demonstrate our capabilities. Even our parents, with good intentions didn’t want us to try new things, leave home, or left alone to develop independence,” he said.

Reflecting on the changes he has witnessed, Sovandeth, is heartened by the progress Cambodia has made in supporting people with disabilities. He has also noted a shift in the attitude of the government, which pays more attention to the issue. “Now, we have laws to protect and promote the rights of people with disabilities. We have national policies and other legal mechanisms that talk about people with disabilities,” he said.

These legal mechanisms have laid the foundation for greater inclusion, but Sovandeth is quick to point out that more work is needed. “We are also pushing for law enforcement to be more effective so that people with disabilities can live equally in society.”

“My journey has shown me that disability is not a barrier to achievement—discrimination and lack of opportunity are. Through advocacy and action, I am committed to breaking these barriers so that every person with a disability can live with dignity, independence, and equal opportunity.”

Sovandeth

His vision extends beyond legal protections, as he is actively working to improve access to healthcare, education, and employment for people with disabilities, ensuring they can lead independent and dignified lives.

In 2009, Sovandeth founded KDPO with support from the provincial Department of Social Affairs and other organizations. Officially registered in 2010, KDPO has become a cornerstone for disability advocacy in Kratie province.

The organization has spearheaded initiatives to create jobs for people with disabilities, helping them earn an income and improve their quality of life. By providing opportunities for financial independence, KDPO ensures that families can send their children to school and break the cycle of poverty.

KDPO has benefited from the FIRST project implemented by CDPO and Oxfam with financial support from the European Union. With the support of the project, he has been able to improve the lives of people with disabilities by working with local authorities. “We are proud that local authorities have more understanding and have ideas to facilitate our engagement. They’ve begun ensuring that National ID Card registration locations are accessible to people with disabilities.”  Under Sovandeth’s leadership, KDPO has also worked with local authorities to integrate the needs of people with disabilities into development plans. This includes promoting their involvement in social and community activities.

KDPO partners with various organizations to equip people with disabilities with skills and education in order to attend vocational training, pursue further education, and gain practical skills like motorbike repair and garment production. Sovandeth strongly believes in the transformative power of education. “When they can go to school, they get educated, they get skills and knowledge, meaning that they will be able to increase their living standards,” Sovandeth noted. The organization collaborates with institutions to secure scholarships for students with disabilities and ensures schools provide accommodations like ramps and accessible facilities.

Sovandeth’s journey exemplifies resilience and determination, transforming personal challenges into a lifelong mission for equality and inclusion.