From Ordinary Student to a Youth Climate Advocate

Text by: Chum Seedeth/LLC | Edited: Ratha Ra

Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia is not only an ecological treasure but also home to countless families, including Vonn Chenda’s. At just 18 years old, Chenda is the youngest in her family and a 12th-grade high school student from the Kampong Khleang community, Siem Reap province. For much of her life, she spent her day studying and playing with friends, without clear goals for the future. Although she occasionally joined tree-planting events and other volunteer activities in her community, she remained unaware of her potential to make a meaningful impact. This lack of inspiration and confidence left her feeling like an ordinary student.

However, everything changed when Chenda embarked on a five-month volunteering journey with Live & Learn Cambodia as part of the Climate Resilience for All (CREFA) project, funded by the Government of Ireland and led by Oxfam. As part of this initiative, Live & Learn Cambodia selected 12 young individuals, including Chenda, to strengthen their capacity in organizing and facilitating the Youth-Climate Forum in Siem Reap province. Live & Learn Cambodia empowered these youths with hands-on experience to excel in their roles.

During that experience, she learned the importance of teamwork, gained a deeper understanding of climate change, and engaged in planning development activities. Determined to step beyond her comfort zone, she traveled long distances, embraced new experiences, and immersed herself in the rich diverse cultures and lifestyles, all of which shaped her growth.

At the end of the program, Chenda recognized how her newfound teamwork and communication skills had evolved, enabling her to become an indispensable member of her community. She began actively sharing her knowledge about climate change and applying her new skills in her school. Setting personal goals and engaging with her community in meaningful ways. She earned admiration from her friends and family. Her leadership shone particularly brightly at a youth climate change forum in Siem Reap province, where she inspired her peers with her ability to create a significant impact on their community.

Looking ahead, Chenda remains dedicated to strengthening her community’s understanding of climate change and inspiring her friends to join projects and events that promote resilience and sustainable development.