Ms. Lim Lyhim, from Samrong Village in Prey Nob District, Sihanoukville, is an example of how empowering women can uplift families and improve the livelihoods of fishery communities.
In Cambodia, informal vendors face numerous challenges, including limited access to education, capital, infrastructure, and business training, as well as market instability, health risks, and gender inequality. Despite these obstacles, they remain the backbone of the local economy, contributing significantly to their communities’ daily needs.
At Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA), we see these vendors as crucial partners in improving both economic and educational conditions. Through our CO-SAVED project, co-funded by the EU, we aim to uplift informal vendors by enhancing their livelihoods and creating more opportunities for children to access education in the coastal provinces of Kep, Kampot, Koh Kong, and Sihanoukville.
A Recipe for Success: The Power of Training and Investment
Ms. Lyhim, along with nine other participants (eight of whom are women), was selected for a program in partnership with Oh La La Pizza. Each participant received a $450 impact investment fund, which covered essential training and materials. This support provided equipment, raw ingredients, business training, and ongoing coaching to help expand their customer reach.
A Woman’s Journey to Empowerment and Resilience
In just seven months, Ms. Lyhim sold 2,500 pizzas at $2.50 each, significantly boosting her family’s income. Beyond the financial benefits, her new business empowered her as an owner and helped diversify her family’s livelihood.
Ms. Lyhim’s success is a testament to the transformative impact of targeted support for women, their families, and communities. Initiatives like this foster entrepreneurship, build resilience in coastal communities, and pave the way for a brighter future.
