Phoeung Yen from Preah Vihear province in northern Cambodia has depended on small-scale farming and selling fuel and fried snacks for years. She earns irregularly and has a very low income, making it difficult to provide for her children's education and daily needs.
Elected village chief
In 2018, a ‘Community Interest Development Group (CIDG)’ is set up: this is a think tank for the village's development. Although she cannot read or write, Phoeung Yen volunteers and is elected village chief by the community. She regularly attends meetings and trainings on leadership, financial management and fundraising. As a result, she not only learns practical skills but also builds self-confidence and stronger self-esteem.
Your own shop
Encouraged by this, Phoeung will receive 500,000 riel (about €108) from the savings group by 2025, with which she will open a small shop selling food, snacks and fuel. At festivals like Khmer New Year, her daily income rises to around 300,000-400,000 riel (approx €65-86). This allows her to continue paying her children's school fees, cover household expenses and ease the financial pressure on her husband.
A big difference
Another positive change is that Ms Yen now feels more seen and respected by the community and local authorities as a capable leader. The CIDG meetings, trainings, study visits and practical support in livelihoods and access to water have contributed to this. Thus, the think tank leads to both improved livelihoods for families and stronger local governance, especially for women with limited education.
Diaconate CGK supports the foundation that sets up projects like this one.
