Involving young individuals is essential for climate resilience. Oxfam recognizes the crucial role youth play in advocating for environmental justice and climate resilience, especially in Cambodia. Recently, Oxfam has supported various youth-led initiatives, including the ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO) Ambassador Program 2024, a youth roundtable at the Cambodia Climate Change Forum 2024, and the Youth Climate Forum 2024.

AYO Ambassador Program

Oxfam supported the ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO) Ambassador Program 2024, engaging 11 youths, including six females, to lead projects on environmental sustainability and climate change. The program aimed to equip these young ambassadors with the knowledge and skills to become agents of change. It included a three-week training course on climate change, climate action, waste management, and clean energy, and a field trip to Siem Reap to share insights with high school students.

Mr. Emvayu Keat, one of the AYO ambassadors, shared how the program transformed his life, instilling a sense of responsibility to combat climate change in Cambodia. 

““The AYO Ambassador Program has changed my life significantly. It has enabled me to realize my full potential and overcome doubts. It has given me a sense of responsibility and the true importance of life, specifically the responsibility to combat climate change in Cambodia.””

Emvayu Keat
AYO ambassador

Oxfam’s National Director, Sophoan Phean, expressed gratitude to the AYO team and ambassadors for their dedication to climate action, emphasizing the importance of equipping young individuals with tools to advocate for environmental justice and shape their careers as future changemakers.

Cambodia Climate Change Forum

Held on October 24-25, 2024, the event gathered around 400 participants, including government officials, youth leaders, and private sector representatives. Oxfam facilitated the participation of young individuals and community members, emphasizing the role of community forest management in addressing climate change and exploring income opportunities through carbon sales. During a session on “Advocating for Enhanced Community Forest Protection and Climate Finance,” challenges in measuring and marketing carbon credits were discussed. Recommendations included promoting forest management and government support for carbon calculation to bolster community forest protection efforts.

Youth Climate Forum

Live & Learn Cambodia organized a Youth Climate Forum in Siem Reap on November 10, 2024, empowering around 150 young people to actively engage in climate change issues. The forum provided a platform for youth to exchange ideas, collaborate with relevant stakeholders, and drive impactful actions. Ratha Ra, representing Oxfam, highlighted the vital role of youth in shaping the country’s future and emphasized the importance of empowering them to drive positive changes. Provincial officials commended the active participation of youths, recognizing them as crucial resources in combating climate change.