From Cambodian Roots to Global Horizons: An Incredible Journey
From Cambodian Roots to Global Horizons: an incredible journey Every once in a while, a story reminds us why we give, why we believe, and why hope—when matched with opportunity—can ignite extraordinary achievements. Tony’s journey is one such story: a narrative of humble beginnings, unwavering determination, and dreams carried on the wings of compassion and […]
From Factory Floors to Fine Dining: One Student’s Journey to Culinary Leadership
From Factory Floors to Fine Dining: One Student’s Journey to Culinary Leadership At 29, a young woman from Ta Kao is rewriting her story—one dish at a time. Once working long hours in a factory for little pay, she is now pursuing her dream of becoming a restaurant supervisor, thanks to her determination and the […]
Honoring Heritage Through Cuisine: Phea Brings Kuy Flavors to the World
At the Naomi Tami Memorial Scholarship Fund, we are proud to support students who not only dream big but also carry their heritage forward with pride. One of our recent success stories is Phea, a gifted young chef from the Kuy indigenous people in Preah Vihear province. Thanks to your support, he has turned his […]
Hongly’s Mission: A Family Friendly Restaurant with Quality Food
Once he acquires the necessary culinary skills and business management practices, 18 year old Hongly Phal plans to open a family friendly restaurant where people can eat good quality food at reasonable prices and create happy memories with their children. Hongly was born in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia, to a family of four. His father […]
A Pastry Shop of Her Own – Kofalida Man
Kofalida Man is 22 years old. She was born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Right now she is well on her way to realizing her dearest ambition – opening a pastry shop of her own. Her journey started with her internship and work at Gate Gourmet and Courtyard by Marriott Phnom Penh. During Expo 2020 Dubai, […]
Kimfong Heng: A Chef with a Mission
Kimfong Heng is the third of four children. He was born in Kampong Cham, Cambodia to parents who struggled to feed and educate their family. Kimfong’s dream was to start his own restaurant with Asian-European food and to create new recipes, so it is a unique place for his patrons. However, he did not have […]
From Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh to Japan and Dubai – a Naomi and ACAC scholar shares her experiences on study at culinary art school, internship, and speech at RewirED summit
I’m very excited as I have been selected to join the RewirED Summit in Dubai as a panelist on this coming December 12th, to discuss about sustainable and gender equal tourism, share my experiences representing the Academy of Culinary Arts of Cambodia (ACAC) and Cambodia.
Accounting Student finds his true passion at culinary academy – Chea Simon
Before coming to ACAC Chea Simon was studying accounting at a school in Phnom Penh, where his older brother was also studying. After one year it was clear that this wasn’t the right career path for him, and he decided to leave. Simon says “I love food and cooking at home, and over time I […]
A Life as a Culinary Student – Ken Socheata
I grew up in the famous Angkot Wat Temple city of Siem Reap. Due to my poor family background, I was sent to live with an international NGO that runs children’s home. When I moved back to live with my mum, she always took good care of me and one way that I always felt […]
Pursuing Education and Career in Hospitality – Monyreth Pum’s Story
Before joining the ACAC, scholarship recipient Pum Monyreth grew up in Chibodia Children’s Home, an NGO in Phnom Penh supporting children without parents. With their help, Monyreth successfully completed her high school degree and then applied for the Naomi Tami Scholarship Program. During her 2 years of studying at the ACAC, the young girl turned […]
