“I love dancing! My mum is a traditional dancer. Throughout my childhood, I would see her dancing and wish to do the same. That is why I decided to take dance classes. I particularly like the Khmer traditional dance ‘Robam Tep Monorom’ (which can be translated as dance of the angels).”

Remembering her first day at school, Kanha says with a smile, “The first time I joined the class, I felt extremely happy because I could do what I had always dreamed of. When I heard that the school’s permanent troupe recruited students who wished to perform, I jumped at the opportunity because I love to dance.” Since Kanha joined the school, she has learned a lot about the history of Cambodian arts and culture. “For me, it is very important to learn traditional Khmer dance, and especially to be able to perform and show the public, especially children, that we have our own culture. I am very proud to support the preservation of our culture and its transmission to new generations.”

Kanha views her future with optimism and determination. “I would like to become a professional dancer like my mother. I am preparing myself to enter the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh after I graduate from Grade 12. My dream is to join the Royal Ballet of Cambodia.”