InterNations: Facilitating Cross-Sector Connections and Business Opportunities in Cambodia
As InterNations Ambassador Tom Starkey celebrates his 1 year anniversary with InterNation this January, we delve into what InterNations is and how it is bringing the Phnom Penh business community together in style.
In the heart of Cambodia’s bustling professional landscape, InterNations stands as a beacon, bringing together a diverse community of local and expat professionals in an engaging and socially-oriented environment. Through its monthly networking and social events held at various venues, InterNations fosters a level playing field, creating opportunities for meaningful cross-sector connections. This article explores how InterNations engages professionals, both locally and internationally, and how businesses can leverage the extensive reach and dynamic network of the group for sponsorship and visibility.
What is InterNations Phnom Penh?
InterNations organizes monthly events, skillfully blending professional networking with a social atmosphere. Each event takes place at a new venue, accompanied by a professional photographer to capture the moments. Adding an element of excitement, a lucky draw is conducted, featuring prizes generously provided by local businesses. This combination creates a vibrant setting where professionals can connect in a relaxed environment.
Why was InterNations started in Phnom Penh?
The core motive behind InterNations is to unite the professional local and expat community in Cambodia. By fostering a relaxed and socially-orientated space, InterNations aims to break down barriers and encourage cross-sector connections. This unique approach levels the playing field, providing professionals with an opportunity to expand their networks beyond the confines of their industries.
InterNations Official Events, organized by Ambassadors like Tom Starkey, take place at least once a month in communities worldwide, providing a platform for networking and socializing. In larger communities, up to four official events may occur each month, catering to the diverse interests of the community.
Additionally, InterNations Groups, led by Consuls, offer smaller, interest-based activities such as photography, brunches, hiking, and language learning. These groups provide members with the opportunity to engage in a more intimate setting, further enhancing the sense of community.
What is the visibility of of InterNations and how does that the social and business aspect of the group?
InterNations provides unparalleled digital and in-person visibility, offering group members, event sponsors and venues an extensive platform to reach new audiences and showcase themselves and their businesses.
- Digital Visibility:
- Event announcements reach over 4.7 million registered users worldwide, with over 11,000 members within Cambodia from 166 different countries.
- Pre and post-event media coverage on Cambodia Investment Review, a business media site with 60k unique monthly readers.
- Exclusive mentions and backlinks on the official InterNations Telegram group with 700 active professional community members in Phnom Penh.
- Prominent visibility on the ‘Professional Events in Cambodia Facebook’ page, boasting over 2,000 local and international members with a high engagement rate.
- In-person Visibility:
- Access to a professional cross-sector business community, bringing around 50 regular and new guests every month.
- Opportunities for sponsors to network and introduce their products to a diverse audience, ranging from freelancers and influencers to CEOs.
- The chance to present prizes with optional in-person introductions, allowing sponsors to showcase their businesses directly.
Further Benefits:
Sponsors, venues, and lucky draw prize providers enjoy free access to InterNations events, providing a unique opportunity to engage with the international professional community in Cambodia.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can contact Tom at 0967801791. Join the InterNations Telegram group here, and view event photos here.
What is the background of InterNations?
The foundation of InterNations traces back to the shared experiences of Malte Zeeck and Philipp von Plato, both from Germany. Having met during their MBA program at the University of St Gallen, Switzerland, in 1997, their paths diverged after graduation. Malte pursued his passion for travel and cultures as an international television reporter, while Philipp, an entrepreneur, embarked on a consulting career in global companies.
Their paths crossed again in January 2007, leading to the realization that their common ground was the experience of being expats. Motivated by the challenges of adapting to new environments, they conceptualized a network that would simplify the process for expats. In September 2007, InterNations was founded as a network of friends living abroad. Today, it stands as the world’s largest expat community, supporting millions of members worldwide in feeling at home abroad every day.
Global Reach and Diversity:
InterNations boasts a diverse membership, with 70% of its members currently living abroad as expats. A significant portion has lived in multiple countries, with 33% experiencing their first stay abroad. Members move abroad for various reasons, including work, lifestyle choices, love, family, education, and more.
The community’s strength lies in its ability to connect expats and locals, with 30% of members being locals, often referred to as “global minds.” Many Ambassadors, including Tom Starkey, have previously been expats, offering valuable insights and support to new members.
Business Opportunities Through Sponsorship:
InterNations’ extensive reach and engaged community create a unique platform for businesses to sponsor events or contribute prizes to the lucky draw. Sponsors gain digital visibility through the platform’s global reach and in-person exposure at events, facilitating connections with professionals from various sectors.
Options for sponsorship, whether free or paid, offer businesses a chance to align themselves with a dynamic international community and boost their reputation within Cambodia’s professional landscape.
InterNations, led by dedicated Ambassadors like Tom Starkey, continues to play a crucial role in making expat life a great experience. Through its global vision and local engagement, InterNations brings together professionals, expats, and locals, fostering connections that extend beyond borders. Businesses looking to tap into this vibrant community have the opportunity to sponsor events, contribute prizes, and enhance their visibility within a diverse and dynamic network.