Empower youth. Build Community. Connect the world
Cambodian Youth Action (CYA) is a nonprofit, non-political, and non-religious organization that inspires, engages, and empowers youth through international voluntary service in the field of education, environment, and sustainable development.
Our Journey
Founded in 2010 by Mr. Sorn Sophat following his return from Taiwan, CYA officially registered under Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior in 2014. For over 15 years, CYA has hosted more than 3,600 volunteers across 720 projects, impacting over 54,000 people.
2010: Founded
2012: NVDA Membership
2014: Official Registration
2025: 54,000+ Lives Touched
Trapaing Sangke: From Nets to Nature
In 2012, CYA started helping Trapaing Sangke, a fishing village. By 2014, our Trees for Cambodia project made it an eco-tourism spot. In 2016, we held the Stop Climate Change conference there with big groups and media. CYA turned it into a green success!
vision, mission, & values
Vision
A world where youth lead the positive changes in communities
Mission
Our mission is to Inspire, Engage, Empower youth to lead the positive changes through Int’l Voluntary Service (IVS).
Our Core Values
- Empowerment: We believe in every individual to make a different and strive to provide them with the tools and Opportunities to do so.
- Collaboration: We value the power of collaboration and teamwork, fostering partnership that enhance our impact.
- Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and promote inclusive practice that ensure everyone has a voice and opportunity to contribute.
- Innovation: We encourage creativity and innovation, constantly seeking new and effective ways to address community challenges and inspire positive change.
- Integrity: We conduct our work with honesty, transparency, and respect building trust with the communities and individuals we engage with.
- Sustainability: We committed to sustainable development practice to ensure long-term benefits for the community we serve.
PROGRAM & SERVICES
VOLUNTEER IN CAMBODIA (B2C)
Bridge to Cambodia (B2C) hosting 250–300 volunteers annually to support education, environment, and development.
VOLUNTEER Abroad (Global Quest)
Global Quest sending Cambodian volunteers abroad for global volunteering experience & self-exploration.
Int'l Leadership Program (ILP)
ILP equips global youth with skills in cross-cultural leadership, project management, and personal growth.
Our Impact
Over the past 15 years, we’ve been organizing 720 projects in different communities across Cambodia where more than 3,600 volunteers were hosted. Our projects and volunteers impacted more than 54,000 people/children. Stories like Trapaing Sangke Fishing Community that changed from a fishing community to a very popular eco-tourism site which is a testament to the power of our collective efforts.
In volunteers words
“Managing and hosting volunteers for a year at CYA – Learning Center helped me grow immensely.” – Rebeca Waldenburg, Germany
“The children’s smiles and immerse myself to the local culture made it an unforgettable experience.” – Oguzhan Malkoc, Turkye
“Volunteering with CYA gave me purpose, community, and the confidence to lead.”
– Jakob Abekon, Germany
Our Networks & Partners
CYA works in collaboration with partners and networks of International Voluntary Services (IVS) across the globe. We are a Full Member of:
- Network for Voluntary Development in Asia (NVDA) since 2012,
- The Coordinating Committee for International Voluntary Service (CCIVS) since 2014
- International Association for Volunteer Efforts (IAVE) since 2018.
Additionally, CYA is also a partner of Service Civil International (SCI), International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE), and ALLIANCE of European Voluntary Service.
Meeting the Team
Sorn Sophat
President
Roun Thangdy
Vice-President
Keat Chanthea
B2C officer
Mr. Ung Kim Teang
Global Quest officer
Ms. Alisa Ny
Admin/Finance
Chanty Samporn
DMC officer
Phann Pheaktra
DMC officer
Cheung Soklang
CSD Manager
FAQs
What is CYA?
CYA Cambodia is a nonprofit and only International Voluntary Service (IVS) organization in Cambodia. We focused on hosting volunteers from all around the world in the purpose of youth development and community empowerment.
What services do you offer?
We offer volunteer programs, internships, community projects, and Leadership trainings/workshops
How can I contact you?
You can contact us via email at info@cyacambodia.com or call us at +855-10-678669
How can I become a volunteer?
You can apply to volunteer through our partner in your country and our website by filling out the application form.
What are the requirements to volunteer?
Volunteers must be 18 years old, able to communicate in English, and committed to our values and mission.
Is there a fee to join the volunteering program?
Yes, there is a program fee that covers accommodation, meals, training, and in-country support.
Do you offer internships?
Yes, we offer internships in various fields. Apply through our website’s internship application form.
How can my organization partner with you?
Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities and collaborative projects.
How to stay updated with your activities?
Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Ready to join us?
Here’s how you can make a difference: