Soroptimist International’s commitment to empowering women and girls globally has seen remarkable progress in our ongoing project in Cambodia, now continued under the auspices of the Soroptimist International (SI) Foundation. Initiated as part of our last SI President’s Appeal ‘Opening Doors to a Bright Future’, the project, titled ‘Education and Learning in Cambodia throughout the life course’, has been a beacon of empowerment for women and girls in rural communities.
Partnering with the Cambodian Community Dream Organisation (CCDO), this project aimed to provide education and support to marginalised women and girls in three districts: Prasat Bakong, Angkor Thom, and Banteay Srei. Since its launch in early 2022, the project has exceeded expectations, engaging 2,814 women and girls in various activities aimed at fostering empowerment and sustainable development.
Looking back on the previous two years, the achievements of this project are manifold; our work in Cambodia has seen numerous training sessions, covering vital areas such as health care, gender equity, personal development, business training and more. These widely successful sessions have not only equipped women and girls with essential skills, but have also boosted their confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to actively participate in their communities.
Key Outcomes
>>> Smart Women
One of the key outcomes of the project has been the establishment of Smart Women groups, comprising active members from each community who serve as mentors and counsellors to those in need. These groups have not only provided invaluable support to women facing various challenges but have also facilitated discussions on important issues like gender equality and women’s rights.
By the end of 2023, there were 46 Smart Women formed from the 6 project communities – this group was comprised of the most active women from each village. Under the supervision of the Commune Council for Women and Children, the Smart Women have provided counselling for other women and girls in need in each community. One of the Smart Women was promoted to be a village chief as a result of the programme, while another woman in Bankong was promoted to join the commune council for women and children.
>>> Specialised Coaching and Mentoring
In addition to the establishment of Smart Women groups, the project has focused on providing specialised coaching and mentoring to women and girls facing personal challenges. Through partnerships with local authorities and the Commune Council for Women and Children (CCWC), tailored support has been offered to over 2,500 individuals, addressing issues ranging from goal-setting to family planning. This personalised approach has not only boosted self-confidence but has also equipped women with the skills and resilience needed to navigate life’s obstacles.
>>> Access to Information and Services
The CCDO’s advocacy efforts have led to tangible improvements in access to public services for marginalised women. By facilitating the issuance of identification cards and raising awareness on rights and available services, over 2,600 women have been empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Moreover, initiatives such as the Tuk-Tuk contracting scheme have addressed transportation barriers, ensuring that women can access essential services and support when needed.
>>> Learning and Participation for Active Citizenship
Through a series of public seminars, community workshops, and networking forums, the project has fostered a culture of learning and collaboration within the target communities. By sharing best practices and engaging in dialogue with local authorities, women representatives have played a pivotal role in shaping community development plans and addressing pressing issues such as domestic violence and financial crises. These initiatives have not only empowered women to become active citizens but have also paved the way for intergenerational knowledge transfer, benefiting families and communities at large.
Future Collaboration with the CCDO
The success of this project can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of Soroptimist International, the CCDO, local authorities, and the many women and girls who have participated thus far. Their dedication and commitment to the cause of women’s empowerment have brought about transformative changes, breaking down barriers to learning and participation for women and girls in Cambodia.
As the project continues under the SI Foundation, Soroptimist International reaffirms its commitment to creating a brighter future for women and girls worldwide. With ongoing support and collective action, the journey towards gender equality and empowerment marches on, one community at a time.