The Siem Reap Academy is a social enterprise dedicated to empowering changemakers in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. We do this by hosting individuals, organizations and businesses with purpose at Siem Reap House, our modern office hub, coworking space and events venue; connecting them in a collaborative and supportive community known as the Siem Reap Society; and partnering with them on organizing impactful events, strategy seminars, and conferences to develop and exchange ideas, under the banner of the Siem Reap Forums.
Mission + Vision
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Our vision is of a just, prosperous and sustainable Cambodia and Southeast Asia.
To contribute to achieving this vision, our mission is to host, connect and partner with changemakers - individuals, organizations and businesses with purpose - to empower them to address the diverse challenges facing Cambodia and the wider region.
Values
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To guide our work and decisions, we have four core values (RISE):
Resilient: We believe that enduring positive change requires strength and adaptability, so we commit to building resilience in ourselves, our members, and the communities we are all serving to overcome challenges and thrive.
Innovative: We believe that solving today’s complex social and environmental challenges requires creativity and fresh perspectives, so we prioritize innovation and encourage new ideas and approaches in everything we do.
Sustainable: We believe that sustainable progress is rooted in respect for human rights and the environment, so we take a rights-based approach, ensuring our work benefits people and the planet, both now and in the future.
Empowering: We believe that lasting change comes from within communities and individuals, so we focus on empowerment by being inclusive of everyone, ensuring that all voices are heard, and providing the tools, knowledge, and support needed for our members’ collective success.
Meet the Team
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Ou Virak
FOUNDER
Ou Virak serves as Chair of the Board, overseeing strategy and managing the Director and consultants at Siem Reap Academy. He is one of Cambodia’s most prominent and principled political analysts and human rights activists, with proven expertise in strengthening grassroots movements, conducting political economy analyses, spearheading organizational development, and directing risk assessments. Prior to founding Future Forum in late 2015, Virak led the Cambodian Center for Human Rights, one of Cambodia’s premier human rights organizations. He has led successful campaigns to free human rights activists and addressed some of the most controversial issues in Cambodia, including the rule of law, freedom of expression, racism, LGBT rights, and forced evictions.
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Puthika Cheab
DIRECTOR
Puthika Cheab is Director of Siem Reap House. Prior to his role at Siem Reap House, he served as an English lecturer at the University of Puthisastra. Puthika holds a bachelor's degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) from the Royal University of Phnom Penh and a master's degree in Educational Research from the University of Gothenburg. His work transcends traditional educational boundaries, making a significant social impact through collaborations with various NGOs and social groups. He uses music and research to shed light on social issues and to advocate for the development of teacher professional identity, body positivity, gender equality, acceptance, and the well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community, fostering understanding and inclusivity across diverse communities.
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Rupert Abbott
SENIOR ADVISOR
Rupert Abbott is a Senior Advisor to the Siem Reap Academy. He is a purpose-driven leader, specialising in turning great ideas into impact. A qualified lawyer with 18 years’ international human rights and social impact experience, he is founding Executive Director of GiveOut and has held senior roles with the Human Rights House Foundation, Amnesty International, the United Nations Assistance to the Khmer Rouge Trials, and the Cambodian Center for Human Rights. He holds a BA and MA in Modern History from the University of Oxford and postgraduate qualifications in Law, Philanthropic Studies and NGO Management, and is an alumnus of the Executive Program for Non-Profit Leaders at Stanford Business School.
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Poumsen Chhom
FINANCE/ADMIN OFFICER
Poumsen Chhom is Finance/Admin Officer at Siem Reap Academy, bringing over 8 years of experience in accounting management and tax. Before joining Siem Reap Academy, she was an Assistant Accounting Manager at Sumitronics Manufacturing Cambodia. Poumsen holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Vanda Institute in Siem Reap and has completed studies in Cambodian tax law at the General Department of Taxation. At Siem Reap Academy, she oversees financial data, manages ledger entries, and prepares reports, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and strong financial expertise.
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Gech Horng
RECEPTIONIST
Gech Horng is a receptionist at Siem Reap House by Siem Reap Academy. She graduated from Angkor High School and is currently in her second year of a bachelor’s degree in accounting at the Cambodian University for Specialties. Horng has gained extensive customer service experience from her previous role as a receptionist at Ree Angkor Hotel, where she honed her communication and organizational skills. Her strong attention to detail and commitment to exceptional service make her a highly valued member of the team at Siem Reap House.
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Loun Phanna
RECEPTIONIST
Loun Phanna is currently serving as a receptionist at Siem Reap House by Siem Reap Academy. He also teaches computer skills, specifically MS Office, at the Ponheary Ly Foundation (PLF) in Siem Reap. Previously, Phanna assisted the head instructor in teaching English to students preparing for the École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme Paul Dubrule. Additionally, he works part-time as a barista at a local coffee shop, driven by his strong passion and connection with coffee. Passionate about teaching, Phanna pursued a TESOL degree after high school and plans to continue with a master’s degree in the same field. His goal is to foster mutual respect, understanding, and support among his students, with the aim of enhancing English proficiency in Cambodia's new generation.
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Sreyley Ry
RECEPTIONIST
Ry Sreyley is the warm and welcoming face you’ll meet at Siem Reap House by Siem Reap Academy. A graduate of Hunsen Kompongleng High School, Sreyley is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in TESOL at Pannasastra University. Before joining our team, she made a significant impact as a teacher at the PEPY Empowering Youth organization, where she developed strong communication and organizational skills. Sreyley’s keen attention to detail and dedication to providing exceptional service make her an invaluable part of our team at Siem Reap House.
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Yung Sovichea
RECEPTIONIST
Yung Sovichea is a dedicated part-time Receptionist at Siem Reap House by Siem Reap Academy. He gained valuable experience in hospitality working in the Food and Beverage department at Mane Colonial Classic Hotel, where he developed skills in service, bartending, and customer relations. Currently, Sovichea is pursuing degrees in English at Pannasastra University of Cambodia and Civil Engineering at the National Polytechnic Institute of Angkor. Fluent in Khmer and proficient in English, he is also skilled in Microsoft Office. Known for his calm demeanor and adaptability, he consistently delivers excellent service in fast-paced environments.
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Ouk Yean
HOUSEKEEPER
Ouk Yean is an integral part of Siem Reap House, ensuring that our coworking space remains clean, organized, and inviting for everyone who walks through our doors. With her keen attention to detail and dedication to maintaining a comfortable environment, she plays a vital role in creating a productive and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond her housekeeping expertise, Yean is also a skilled barista, preparing a range of beverages with precision and care—from a rich iced latte to a soothing green tea latte. Her ability to combine efficiency with warmth makes her a valued member of our community, always ready to enhance the Siem Reap House experience with her exceptional service.