In a world where a child’s future often depends on where they’re born, young artists from Cambodia and Indonesia are showing that determination, creativity, and hope can tell a different story.
To mark International Women’s Day, the Asia Young People for Action (AYA) network launched Together for Education, a national drawing competition inviting youth to express their views on education. The response was powerful—over 138 artworks were submitted from across Cambodia and Indonesia, each one a window into real lives, struggles, and dreams.
This exhibit celebrates the top 30 selected artworks, spotlighting stories that are raw, honest, and deeply human. These pieces aren’t just drawings—they’re lived experiences, told through pencils and paint.
Meet the Top Three from Cambodia
Among the many submissions, three stories rose to the top—not because the art was flawless, but because of the powerful people behind them. These are students, teachers, and changemakers who are using their creativity to speak up for the right to education. In this special feature, we hear from them directly—through their challenges, their hopes, and their dreams.
- Panha, a high school student, drew inspiration from the three pillars of learning: family, school, and community.
- Hengleap, studying architecture, used her art to reflect the lived experiences of indigenous youth she supports.
- Vanro, a volunteer teacher, told a story rooted in hardship, persistence, and his mission to uplift others.
Art That Reflects Life
For these young artists, drawing wasn’t just a task—it was a way to express their truth and offer a vision of what is possible.
“I wanted to show that education comes from many places—not just school, but home and the people around us,” said Panha. “I hoped to give people a sense of hope.”
Hengleap shared, “I used symbols from the indigenous communities I’ve worked with. They have big dreams, even if they don’t have the tools. I wanted to show their strength.”
And Vanro added, “I’ve seen kids walk hours to school, face bullying, and still keep going. That kind of spirit—it deserves to be seen.”
Behind Every Drawing: A Real Journey
These artworks carry more than color—they carry lived experiences and personal journeys.
Hengleap recalled, “As a girl from a rural area, my parents were scared to let me move to Phnom Penh. I studied hard, won a scholarship, and eventually earned their trust.”
Vanro reflected, “I had to work to support my education. Many kids drop out to work in factories. We don’t walk—we run, just to keep up.”
Panha shared, “My parents had to leave to find work. I was supported by the Cambodian Children’s Fund. Without that, I wouldn’t be in school today.”
Giving Back: A New Kind of Power
What makes these youth remarkable isn’t just their resilience—it’s their choice to lift others as they rise.
Panha believes small acts make a big difference: “Sometimes, just sharing a lunch or a book helps someone stay in school. That’s how we support each other.”
Hengleap lives by this reminder: “Don’t compare yourself to others—compare yourself to who you were yesterday. That’s what helps me keep going and lift others up too.”
For Vanro, it’s all about community: “Study groups, kindness, peer support—those things matter. We all have the power to lift someone up.”
Dreaming Bigger: Hopes for the Future
Each of them carries a bold vision for what education can and should be.
Panha dreams of better access for rural children: “No child should be left behind just because they’re poor or live far away.”
Vanro wants to change how people see education: “Too many give up on school for short-term work. We need to show them that education is a path to freedom.” And Hengleap hopes for learning spaces that welcome everyone: “Education should be a place where everyone feels they belong—no matter who they are.”
A Message to Youth Everywhere
Their messages are simple, heartfelt, and deeply empowering.
Panha says, “Start with yourself. Keep moving. The world has meaning if we give it meaning.”
Hengleap encourages “Volunteer. Learn. Give back. When you rise, lift others with you.”
And Vanro reminds us, “You are the key. It doesn’t matter where you start—what matters is what you do next.”
Beyond the Canvas
This was more than an art contest; it was a powerful reminder of what happens when young voices are heard. Through bold lines and vivid colors, these drawings speak louder than words, reminding us that education is not only a right, it’s a shared responsibility.
These young changemakers show us that when youth are given a platform, they don’t just imagine a better future; they build it. And when we choose to listen, support, and stand with them, we don’t just witness change; we become part of it. Together, we all move forward.