My success came from hard work and life-long learning

"I am the eldest in the family with 4 other brothers and sisters. One of my sisters unfortunately died young due to a bad cold.  My parents were very poor, so I had to quit school after grade 5.  I went to the pagoda for free education and

boarding as a ‘temple boy’ for a year and then became a monk for 4 years. Because of my parents’ advice, I later returned to normal living and started working from the base level.  I did many jobs including security guard, cleaner, operator as well as helping my wife to sell sweets at the market. I don't have high academic qualifications but I believe in learning and always try to do a better job every time. After years of hard work, I became a supervisor and then a  section manager at one of the top oil & gas companies in Cambodia.  People from my village not only regard me as a successful businessman but also a ‘big brother’ as I passionately help them grow.  I taught young people English at home and donated to many community projects.  I helped many people to find jobs and coached them for applying for scholarships. I am a very happy man with a loving wife and a 11 year old daughter.  When I was young, I wasn’t educated to have dreams. But now, I would like to be a community leader one day so that I can share my knowledge and support my community.”