Create Real Impact. Experience Cambodia Beyond Tourism.
Join a global community of volunteers and partners working hand-in-hand with local communities to build sustainable change.
proven impact, real results
Over the past 15+ years, Cambodian Youth Action (CYA) has delivered more than 720 community-led projects, engaged 3,600+ international volunteers, and empowered over 54,000 children and community members. Together, these efforts have expanded access to education, strengthened local livelihoods, and supported sustainable development—creating lasting change across communities in Cambodia.
Who We Are?
Locally Driven. Globally Connected.
Cambodian Youth Action (CYA) is a leading International Voluntary Service organization connecting global volunteers and partners with Cambodian communities to create meaningful, lasting change.
Since 2010, we have worked at the grassroots level to deliver impactful programs in education, environmental conservation, and community development—empowering local communities while creating transformative experiences for volunteers.
2010: Founded
2012: NVDA Membership
2014: Official Registration
2025: 54,000+ Lives Touched
Our Story
From a Local Vision to a Global Movement
CYA was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: lasting change happens when people work together. What began as a small grassroots initiative to support underserved communities has grown into a dynamic organization connecting thousands of volunteers and partners from around the world. By bridging global passion with local needs, we create opportunities for communities to thrive while empowering individuals to make a meaningful and lasting difference.
Trapaing Sangke: From Struggle to Sustainability
In 2012, Trapaing Sangke was a quiet fishing village facing environmental degradation and limited opportunities. CYA began working closely with the community, planting the seeds of change through the Trees for Cambodia initiative.
By 2014, restored mangroves and growing local engagement had transformed the area into an emerging eco-tourism destination. In 2016, the village gained national and international recognition by hosting the Stop Climate Change conference, attracting diverse participants and media attention.
Today, Trapaing Sangke is a powerful example of how community action and global support can turn challenges into sustainable success.
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
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.
Our PROGRAMs
Our programs are designed with communities—not for them—ensuring sustainable, long-term results.
Education
Supporting schools, youth programs, and learning opportunities that empower the next generation.
Environment
Protecting natural ecosystems through conservation, climate action, and sustainable practices.
Community Development
Strengthening local livelihoods, skills, and resilience through community-led initiatives.
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.
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.
WHY CHOOSE cya?
Why Volunteers and Partners Choose CYA?
- Community Led-Project: We work with communities to identify real needs—not assumptions.
- Sustainable Impact: Our projects are designed for long-term change, not short-term visits.
- Cambodian Led-Organization: Deep local knowledge ensures meaningful and respectful engagement.
- Global Network: Strong international partnerships expand impact and opportunities.
Meeting the Team
Sorn Sophat
President
Roun Thangdy
Vice-President
Mr. Ung Kim Teang
Global Quest officer
Ms. Alisa Ny
Admin/Finance
Chanty Samporn
DMC officer
Phann Pheaktra
DMC officer
Be Part of the Change
Join a global community creating real impact in Cambodia.