October 8, 2026

Nat Sonai: Opening Doors to New Opportunities Through Education

"FLC gave me opportunities I never thought I would have. It helped me gain real work experience, discover my potential, and gave me the confidence to believe that every new challenge is an opportunity to build a better future."

Nat Sonai

Ms. Nat Sonai is a 21-year-old fourth-year Public Administration and Governance student at the National University of Battambang (NUBB). She comes from Roung Village, Chaeng Meanchey Commune, Banan District, Battambang Province. She is one of three siblings, all of whom are currently studying. Her parents work as daily wage laborers, and the family's income is unstable, depending on whether work is available. In addition to covering daily living expenses, the family must also make monthly bank loan repayments, making it difficult to support their children's education.

The Challenge

Growing up in a family with limited and unpredictable income, Sonai constantly worried about the financial burden on her parents. While she was determined to complete her university education, she was also concerned about whether she would be able to find a stable and well-paid job after graduation. Without practical work experience, she knew that entering the job market would be even more challenging.

PKO's Response

Through the Future Leaders Center (FLC) Program, she received free training in practical and professional skills while also being connected with internship opportunities through FLC's partner organizations. These opportunities enabled her to gain real workplace experience, develop professional competencies, and build a stronger foundation for future employment. In addition to technical skills, the program strengthened her abilities in time management, financial planning, teamwork, and public speaking while expanding her professional network.

Change & Impact 

The FLC Scholarship Program broadened Sonai's perspective beyond what she learned at university. She gained practical knowledge, developed a more open mindset, and became more willing to explore new opportunities. Through volunteer work and internship experiences, she began earning a small income while gaining valuable workplace experience. The program also helped her create a clearer career plan and motivated her to continue improving herself so she can secure stable employment in the future.

Remaining challenges: Although Sonai has gained valuable knowledge and experience, she still worries about securing stable employment with a reasonable salary after graduation. She understands that the job market is competitive and believes she must continue developing her skills and experience to achieve her career goals.

Beneficiary Quote : 

"FLC gave me opportunities I never thought I would have. It helped me gain real work experience, discover my potential, and gave me the confidence to believe that every new challenge is an opportunity to build a better future."

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