Empowering Women and Children in Rural Cambodia: A Conversation with The Sorn Foundation

The Sorn Foundation is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion faced by many women and children in rural Cambodia. The foundation strives to empower individuals with the tools they need to build a better future by providing education, essential skills training, and community development programs.

Founded by Nicola Clements and Somphors Sorn, this independent charity focuses on reducing Violence Against Women (VAW) through grassroots education and training initiatives. Programs include Khmer and English language education, women’s rights awareness, parenting support, and sustainable living projects such as vegetable growing and livestock rearing. Additionally, the foundation runs a community enterprise hub to provide mentorship and business development support.

Tom Starkey sat down with founder and fellow mancunian Nicky to talk about the organisation’s mission and how to get involved. 

Q&A with Nicky, Founder of The Sorn Foundation

Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your NGO’s mission?

I’m Nicky, founder of The Sorn Foundation, a charity registered in both the UK and Cambodia. We provide free education to underprivileged children, teaching both English and Khmer to help them reach the same level as their peers. Our goal is to give them real opportunities for the future. English is a gateway language. The biggest challenge is funding—without enough support, the school can’t survive.

What impact has your NGO made so far, and what are some highlights?

We’ve built a school from nothing and now provide education to kids who would otherwise have no access. Some of our students now dream of becoming doctors, engineers, and teachers, which is incredible. A big moment for us was when the UK Ambassador to Cambodia visited our school—it was a proud milestone.

A personal highlight for me is my co-founder, Somphors. I met her while volunteering, and we helped her go to university. She wanted to give back, and now she’s a key part of the charity. She inspires me every day.

What makes your organization unique in its approach?

We don’t just teach—we’re part of the community. We’re working towards locals eventually running the school themselves, but they’re not ready yet, so I need to be there. We also run on a small budget, relying on direct support rather than big grants. Every donation makes an immediate impact.

Without The Sorn Foundation, these kids would fall behind their peers and have little chance of breaking the cycle of poverty. Education is the key to changing their future. Our school is also a safe, supportive place that gives them hope.

How can people support or get involved?

We need donations to keep the school running—monthly supporters make the biggest difference. We also welcome volunteers, especially teachers or people who can help with content creation. Businesses can sponsor a teacher or donate resources. Even just sharing our story helps.

What do you love most about working in Cambodia?

I love the simple life in the village and the strong sense of community—everyone looks out for each other. But the best part is the kids. Seeing their excitement to learn, even with all the challenges they face, makes it all worth it.

To learn more about The Sorn Foundation or to support their mission, visit them today!

Website: https://thesornfoundation.org/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-sorn-foundation-9028501b0/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesornfoundation 

Charity Registration No: 1201859

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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