May 282 min read

Cambodia & Solidarity : First Lady Pich Chanmony presides over CCF’s 20th anniversary celebrations

Last Sunday, the First Lady joined the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) to celebrate 20 years of success working with impoverished children and families in Cambodia at Stung Meanchey commune in Meanchey district of Phnom Penh.

Prime Minister Hun Manet’s wife, First Lady Pich Chanmony, was present at the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) to commemorate 20 years of dedicated service to improving the lives of impoverished children and families in Cambodia. On the opening day of celebrations on Sunday, she joined the festivities at Phnom Penh’s Stung Meanchey commune, where the CCF began its journey two decades ago.

In her address, Chanmony expressed profound joy and pride for the privilege of presiding over the event, declaring it an historic moment for the organisation’s noble cause.

“Today marks a joyous and proud moment as I preside over the 20th anniversary of the Cambodian Children’s Fund and an unforgettable historic moment for the Cambodian Children’s Fund in its notable cause of the past two decades,” she stated.

Accompanied by Scott Neeson, founder of CCF, Chanmony lauded his genuine compassion and dedication towards Cambodian children, which she said had inspired her and her husband to support CCF’s mission.

She expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of Mr Hun Manet, urging both national and international philanthropists and stakeholders to extend their support to CCF.

“Your assistance in all forms, whether through financial contributions to fund operations, donations of essential educational materials and equipment, or sharing of ideas, skills and knowledge, is invaluable to ensure the continued success of the Foundation’s endeavours,” the First Lady stated emphatically.

Over 3,000 CCF students, family members, and invited guests attended a vibrant community street festival, which was a fitting finale to the celebrations.

The event featured games, music, and performances by renowned artists, including Princess Norodom Jenna, Sai, Miss Vis, Puthika, and Sok Serey. Photo supplied

Reflecting on CCF’s journey, Neeson proudly reminisced about its humble beginnings, which started with the rescue of one girl and her family from the garbage dump in Stung Meanchey.

“We have expanded our reach to provide education, healthcare, and community support to impact more than 155,000 lives, which is remarkable.”

Among the success stories is Sophy Ron, the first CCF student to win an international scholarship in 2017. After graduating from the University of Melbourne, she now works at a private school in Australia, and she credits CCF for her achievements.

Another inspiring tale is that of Heuv Nhanh. After spending years scavenging on the garbage dump, he found a new path through support from the organisation.

Now a successful filmmaker, 30-year-old Nhanh is clear about the transformative power of education in shaping one’s destiny.

“I thought I would be a garbage picker for life; I didn’t think I had a future.”

“When I think about the past, I cannot believe how much things have changed. If you have an opportunity to study like I was given, then you take it. And that’s your chance to change your destiny.” “You cannot change the past, but you can change the future,” he added.