From June 2–6, 2025, Nepal hosted the 12th Asia Girl Child Peace Camp, an inspiring gathering of young women from across the region. Every two years, the public policy think tank Bikalpa invites girls from Asian countries to connect through cross-cultural learning, empowerment, and shared experiences.
This year, Cambodia was proudly represented by Reach Solida and Moeun Seavmey, two remarkable students from the People Improvement Organisation (PIO) who have been with the school since kindergarten. Alongside peers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, they embarked on a life-changing journey.
First-Time Flyers, First-Time Ambassadors
For Solida and Seavmey, the camp brought many “firsts.” They applied for their very first passports and boarded a plane for their very first international trip. With weeks of preparation behind them, they arrived ready to share their country with the world.
The girls gave powerful presentations on the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge, and its evolving national identity. They also performed a traditional Cambodian dance—an unforgettable moment of pride for their culture.
Learning, Friendship, and Courage
The camp offered much more than presentations. Through workshops and group activities, the girls explored other Asian cultures while reflecting on Cambodia’s strengths and challenges. Using English as their common language, they made friends across borders and shared stories of resilience and hope.
There were adventures, too—like climbing a towering wall that tested their courage, and visiting organisations that sponsor Bikalpa’s secondary schools. The camp closed with a moving Nepali tradition: lighting hundreds of candles together, symbolising peace and unity.
Returning with Renewed Purpose
When Solida and Seavmey returned home, they carried more than memories. They came back empowered, with a stronger determination to advocate for women’s rights and a freer society. Their journey shows the ripple effect that opportunities like the Peace Camp can have—not just on individuals, but on communities and future generations.
A Legacy of Hope
This is not the first time PIO girls have represented Cambodia at the Peace Camp. In 2019, with Dharma Care’s support, Vorleak (Srey Lak) attended the camp. Once a child living on a rubbish dump, her life was transformed when she joined PIO. With education, she thrived, earned her first passport, and proudly stood as Cambodia’s voice on an international stage.
Her story, and now those of Solida and Seavmey, remind us that investing in education truly transforms lives.
How You Can Help
Dharma Care is committed to creating more opportunities for girls like Solida, Seavmey, and Vorleak. If you would like to help transform the life of a destitute Cambodian girl, please visit our SREY LAK PROGRAM FOR GIRLS page to make a donation.
Together, we can open doors to education, empowerment, and a brighter future.
Update kindly provided by Miyako Armytage. (September 2025)