From Challenges to Stability

The decision to invest in these specific activities followed thorough consultations and feasibility studies conducted by the Krousar Thmey team. Although the family initially faced challenges and unfavorable conditions with fishing and poultry farming, they persisted. Eventually, Mrs. Khatna’s family established a stable daily income:

• Fishing: They catch between 3 to 6 kg of fish daily from the river behind their house. Half of the catch is sold for 6,000 Riels per kg, while the remainder is kept for daily meals or processed into Prahok (fish paste) for sale.

• Poultry Farming: Their chicken farm yields a significant return, with prices ranging from 7,000 to 15,000 Riels per kg, depending on the size of the birds.

• Handicrafts: Additionally, Mrs. Khatna generates income by weaving water hyacinth hammocks. Sold to villagers and tourists for 15,000 Riels each, she typically completes one hammock every 2 to 3 days, depending on her health.

Impact on Education and Family

The success of this small business has ensured a sustainable future for their two grandchildren, who have been in their care since infancy following their parents’ divorce:

• Poeun Rima (15): Currently in Grade 9.
• Poeun Rady (13): Currently in Grade 7 at Dan Run Lower Secondary School.

Since 2020, both children have also been supported by the Child Welfare Program, receiving a monthly allowance of $15 each. Beyond financial aid, they receive educational counseling, career orientation for vocational training or university, and soft skills training to help them achieve their future professional dreams.

The post Success story of Income Generation Activity of Krousar Thmey first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

The evening opened with a powerful moment: children from our Takhmao Protection Center graced the stage with a traditional blessing flower dance. Their poised and graceful performance not only captivated the audience but also symbolized the growing confidence and integration of our children into the broader community. Seeing them shine was a moment of immense pride for all of us at Krousar Thmey.

Over 300 students, families and educators filled the venue with energy and enthusiasm. Each musical act received warm applause with one of the most memorable performances coming from CIA’s primary class students, whose vibrant performances lit up the stage and brought smiles to every face.

Adding depth to the evening, our long-standing partners from the National Institute for Special Education (NISE) hosted an engaging exhibition on deafness and blindness. Attendees of all ages explored Braille and sign language, gaining valuable insights into inclusive communication and the importance of accessibility in education.

The highlight of the fundraising efforts was a dynamic concert organized by the CIA music department, which raised $2700 in cash donations that will directly support our mission to provide quality care, education and empowerment to vulnerable and marginalized children in Cambodia.

We extend our deepest thanks to CIA First International School, its dedicated staff and its talented students for their generosity and commitment to social change. We are also deeply grateful to our event sponsors—Prudential, Pachem Dental Clinic and CIMB Bank—for believing in the potential of every child.

Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for Cambodia’s children—one note, one song, one step and one smile at a time.

The post An Evening of Hope: CIA First International School Raises Funds and Awareness for Krousar Thmey first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Imagine a tool that not only bridges the gap between sign language and written language, but also enables deaf people and their families to communicate more effectively. The Signs Discovery application, presented by Patrick LABELLE, is revolutionizing the teaching of sign language in inclusive education and specialized schools.

This innovative platform is not limited to serving as a learning tool for people with partial or total deafness. It extends its services to families, educators and even potential employers, to help the deaf community better integrate into society. Designed to accelerate the learning of simple and complex signs, the application is designed to support users in their use of sign language. Teachers can create personalized lessons and assessments, categorized by theme and adapted to their students’ abilities. This approach guarantees a seamless learning experience where students can learn, practice and review at their own pace.

The platform’s tracking system automatically records the student’s progress. If a student’s performance falls short of expectations, they are encouraged to challenge themselves in a supportive, pressure-free environment. One of the most remarkable features of the application is its word/phrase-sign translator and reverse translator (sign-word). These tools simplify complex concepts, bridge communication gaps, and improve understanding between the deaf and hearing communities.

Currently, the Signs Discovery application includes an impressive 6,777 signs, validated by the National Institute for Special Education and Krousar Thmey. Over 500 deaf students and 100 specialist teachers are expected to benefit from this transformative resource. With its ability to empower individuals, enhance learning, and promote inclusion, the Signs Discovery app is not just a tool; it’s a portal to a more inclusive and interconnected society.

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“My first day of grocery selling was incredibly difficult. I felt ashamed as buyers laughed at me for using a broken baby bucket to carry my items. I didn’t know what a fair price for my goods should be, but within a week, I managed to figure it out. Soon, I was making good deals and saved up enough money—$15—to buy a proper bucket, and people stopped laughing. I used to think the world was small and closed to me, but I realized it was my own fear holding me back. Thanks to the $300 financial support from Krousar Thmey’s Income Generation Activity, I was able to reunite with my family and face any challenges that came my way. I failed at several small businesses, but I never gave up. I watched others, learned, and kept trying until I built a successful business of my own,” said Chenda, smiling as she shared her story.

Chenda, a 33-year-old married mother of two, grew up with her aunt and four siblings in Wat Svay village, Sala Kamoeuk commune. Originally from Siem Reap, her parents separated when she was pregnant with her third child. She used to work as a kitchen helper at the Stung Siem Reap hotel, where she met her husband, an electrician. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, she moved to Puok district to live with her mother-in-law, about 20 kilometers from the city, after losing her job during the pandemic’s second year. Her husband still works in Siem Reap and sends money home, but his income barely covers their needs, supporting his mother, Chenda, and their two children.

In 2023, Chenda met a social worker from Krousar Thmey during an outreach activity. They discussed the possible support she could receive, and Chenda shared her dream of opening a dessert stall. She spent a week learning to make desserts from her neighbors for free and then moved to Siem Reap with her children to begin selling. Despite guidance and regular visits from Krousar Thmey staff, her dessert business did not succeed as expected, earning only $2.5 to $3.5 daily. Many locals preferred to eat in busier areas, and the elderly didn’t often buy desserts. Undeterred, Chenda pivoted to selling shaved ice syrup, meatballs, and papaya salad, which did better initially but only lasted two months, as sales depended heavily on the nearby school’s schedule. She faced yet another setback.

Chenda’s resilience kept her going. Inspired by others selling vegetables and meat from motorbikes, she decided to try the same. After consulting with Krousar Thmey, she borrowed an additional 300,000 riels ($75) to add to her remaining 200,000 riels ($50) from Krousar Thmey’s original support and started her business again. This time, she succeeded.

“Every day, I wake up at 4 a.m. to buy items at the market and prepare everything by 6:30 a.m. I drive from one location to another, visiting my regular customers, and spend about five and a half hours before returning home. I sell around 70% of my items and reserve the rest for evening sales at my house. I earn between 150,000 and 170,000 riels ($37.5 – $42.5) daily, with a net income of 30,000 to 35,000 riels ($7.5 – $8.75). This income allows me to save for healthcare and future needs. Before, I couldn’t afford snacks for my kids or buy more than 100 grams of pork. Now, I can buy 500 grams and better provide for my family. I’ve been selling vegetables and meat on the move for nearly a year and a half since 2023, and I’m proud of the income I generate. ‘Everyone can make their own path, and there’s no success without effort,’” said Chenda.

In the future, Chenda hopes to see her two children become teachers or nurses, like her sisters, Vichekar and Tola, who are studying nursing with Krousar Thmey’s Academic and Career Counseling support at Kampong Cham Regional Training Centre for Health.

The post A Story of a Successful Mobile Vendor, CHENDA first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Krousar Thmey is dedicated to providing education, cultural access, and social support to disadvantaged children in Cambodia, particularly those who are deaf, blind, or otherwise vulnerable. Your participation in this charity run can help Krousar Thmey continue to transform lives and offer brighter futures to these children. Every step you take will bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.

Join Us After the Siem Reap International Half Marathon!

Are you already planning to run in the Siem Reap International Half Marathon on December 1, 2024? Why not extend your support for a wonderful cause? After you have completed the half marathon, you can join our charity event on December 15th and contribute to a life-changing mission for Cambodian children.

The Susu Running Team, who are leading this charity initiative, have been an incredible force in organizing and promoting this event. Their commitment to fitness and their passion for making a positive impact on Cambodian society is truly inspiring. We would like to thank all athletes who have already reserved the date for this charitable event, especially the Susu Running Team, for their dedication to this cause and their leadership in supporting the Krousar Thmey Foundation.

Why Join the Charity Run?

Support Children in Need

All proceeds will directly benefit Krousar Thmey, helping children access essential services and education.

Be Part of a Community

Whether you are a seasoned runner or a beginner, this is a fantastic opportunity to unite with fellow athletes and fitness enthusiasts for a meaningful cause.

Extend Your Marathon Journey

If you are participating in the Siem Reap International Half Marathon, our charity run is a great way to continue your running journey this December while making a real difference in the lives of Cambodian children.

Inspire Others

By joining, you will help raise awareness about Krousar Thmey’s mission and encourage others to support this important cause.

Learn and Promote Inclusivity

During the event, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage in sign language learning sessions led by members of the deaf community, as well as explore how Braille is written and used by individuals who are blind. This experience will give you a glimpse into the world of special education and how it fosters inclusivity, creating a sense of unity and understanding among us all.

Event Details

• Race Day: December 15, 2024
• Venue: Aeon Mall 3, Phnom Penh
• Distance: 10 km & 5 km
• Registration Link: https://cps4.me/susu10k
• Event Telegram: https://t.me/susu10k2024

 Who Can Join?

Everyone! Whether you are an avid runner, a casual jogger, or just want to walk for a great cause, you’re welcome to participate.

How to Participate

To participate in this charity run, simply visit the registration page https://kh.checkpointspot.asia/event/susu10k. If you are unable to join in person, you can participate in virtual run, anytime and anywhere. Every bit of support count and will help us make a difference.

We cannot wait to see you there! Together, let’s run for a brighter future for Cambodia’s children. Thank you again to all the athletes, runners, and especially to the Susu Running Team for their incredible leadership and passion. Let’s make this a memorable event that brings hope and joy to the lives of many!

Let’s make every step count!

The post Join Us for the Charity Run to Support Krousar Thmey on December 15, 2024! first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Minea and Sreyleab meet the guidance counselors at Krousar Thmey in February 2024.

The post Meet Sreyleab, Han and Minea: At the Dawn of their New Lives first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Aquarelle de Rodin (1906)

Passing on the memory to new generations

Originally, Royal Ballet dance was transmitted orally within the palace circle. « The first archives date back to 1898. It’s one of the very first films in the history of cinema, made in Cambodia by an operator from the Lumière brothers, explains Xavier de LAUZANNE. There’s an inherent fragility in this oral tradition. At the end of the 1920s, Frenchman George Groslier feared that the decline in the budget allocated by the colonial Empire to finance ballet, in the context of soaring modernity, would doom this heritage, so he photographed the dancers’ positions on almost 300 glass plates. » 

The filmmaker is following in the footsteps of his French predecessors to document this art form and leave material traces in history: « Prince Sisowath Tesso wanted to preserve the work of Princess Buppha Devi, a great dancer and later director of the Royal Ballet. With my camera, I had the privilege of following her as she organized her last ballet. »

 

Mouvements de la danse du Ballet Royal saisis par Groslier (1927)

In the 2nd half of the 20th century, the Royal Ballet’s training opened up to the rest of the population. « This year, our school welcomes 100 students in classical dance classes, reports Boren TOCH. In total, 300 students take dance classes, but the majority turn to Khmer folk dances, which are very common in public celebrations. » Khmer classical dance requires very regular and rigorous practice from an early age. « It takes more than 10 years to train a professional dancer, continues Boren TOCH. It also requires a particular emotional attachment to the art. »

Xavier de LAUZANNE, who witnessed the Royal Ballet’s rehearsals and training sessions, agrees: « I was struck by the dancers’ total dedication to their art, and by the great respect shown for their elders. » Asked about the future, Boren TOCH smiles: « I’m confident when I see the enthusiasm of the new generations for the traditional arts; they will ensure the transmission. »

« In making this film, I became aware of the importance of our collective responsibility for the survival of traditional arts, » emphasizes Xavier de LAUZANNE. Listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage since 2008, the Royal Ballet now has a dedicated place in the memory of humanity.

 

Building and reconstructing identity

Part of a wider filmography on the theme of identity and reconstruction, La beauté du geste questions the role of traditional culture in times of crisis. « Art can help people heal after a trauma, says Boren TOCH. It’s a great means of expression, but also a strong unifying factor. Because of the war, many Cambodians were exiled on the road or took refuge in camps in Thailand. Uprooted, some had forgotten the origin of Apsara dance and thought it came from Thai culture. »

 

Cours de danse classique à l’école d’art et de culture de Krousar Thmey (2023)

And yet, culture is as strong as the people who bring it to life. « Browsing through the archives, I discovered videos of Mme Van Savay, 1st star of the Royal Ballet, from 1985, recounts Xavier de LAUZANNE. At that time, her life, like that of millions of Cambodians, had been turned upside down and, far from the gilded scenes of the palace, she was teaching the movements of the Royal Ballet in a makeshift camp. The passion of these artists, who decided to stay in their country and pass on their knowledge, helped preserve a heritage that was then under serious threat. » Indeed, according to estimates, only 10% of Cambodian artists have survived wars and persecution.

« Art is also a way of reminding society of its values when it forgets them, adds Boren TOCH. For years, Krousar Thmey has staged dance and shadow theater performances to fight against human trafficking. In fact, that’s how I discovered the NGO and its art school, in the early 2000s. »

« There’s something universal about this story: how can an ancestral art serve as a foundation for collective rebuilding after a major crisis?, asks the French director. Echoing this, in the land of Angkor, Boren TOCH concludes, « Promoting Khmer history and traditional arts means rebuilding a common identity and national pride. » 

 

En savoir plus sur Krousar Thmey

Créée en 1991 dans les camps de réfugiés de Site II en Thaïlande, Krousar Thmey (“nouvelle famille” en khmer) est historiquement la première fondation cambodgienne à venir en aide aux enfants défavorisés. Sa mission est de permettre l’intégration des enfants défavorisés dans la société cambodgienne, par une éducation et un soutien adaptés à leurs besoins, tout en respectant leurs traditions et leurs croyances. En 2022, les activités de Krousar Thmey ont bénéficié à plus de 3 700 personnes, dont 2 500 enfants. L’ONG mène 3 programmes et 2 projets transversaux dans 15 provinces du Cambodge: Protection de l’enfance, Education spécialisée et inclusive pour enfant sourd ou aveugle, Développement culturel et artistique, Orientation universitaire et professionnelle et Hygiène et santé.

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