Cambodia’s informal workers are finding new ways to turn skills into sustainable livelihoods. Action Education / Aide et Action has empowered Uk Roen and Liv Champeakdey’s family business through access to modern equipment, enabling them to thrive in a competitive digital economy.
On the main road of Trapeang Sangkae, Tuk Chhou district, Kampot province, a small shop stands — its windows revealing the quiet magic of phone repairs and technical expertise.
In October 2025, Uk Roen and his wife’s business received a significant boost through our CO-SAVED project, co-funded by the EU: two advanced machines — a hot air desoldering machine and an automatic screen cutting machine.
“These machines help our family business a lot,” Uk Roen explains as he demonstrates the equipment.
“With the screen cutter, I can cut any kind of screen or back cover for tablets and phones.”
He continues: “The desoldering machine allows me to repair phones efficiently — removing old stickers, replacing parts, and fixing all kinds of devices.”
From Shop to School: Turning Income into Opportunity
Their business is not only a livelihood but also a source of family pride, self-sufficiency and independence. “We have three children. These are my twin daughters; they are 14 years old and in Grade 7 at Kampong Krong Primary School,” Uk Roen says as his two young girls return home.
“We also have a son. He’s 9 years old and in Grade 5 at Kbal Romeas Primary School.” He adds: “Anything that helps increase our income supports their education and allows us to reinvest in the business.”
Earning, Learning, Thriving: The Power of Family Entrepreneurship
Since opening their shop in October 2022, their client base has grown steadily. “Around 30% of our customers are from the local area, but many travel from further away. Many clients come from Kep to use our services.”
“I love this shop — it combines my skills and my interests. Before, I worked as a staff member in someone else’s shop, and I always dreamed of running my own business. Now, my wife and I manage it together, and in the future, we hope to expand with another shop that she can oversee.”
Through access to training and equipment, Action Education / Aide et Action empowers informal workers like Uk Roen to thrive. By combining skill, passion, and innovative technology, small family businesses are transforming into engines of opportunity, resilience, and community development.
Technology, skills, and entrepreneurship — together, these are helping families write their own success stories.
