A young person's educational path can completely transform when given the right opportunity. From a girl learning how to use a computer for the first time, to an accomplished scholar preparing to pursue her Master’s degree at Harvard University—this is not a coincidence. It is the result of resilience, courage, and continuous self-development.

This is the deeply inspiring experience of Riya, a remarkable former student and youth leader who journeyed from a tech classroom in Cambodia into active participation within global education ecosystems.

Daring to Take the First Step, Even from Zero

When it comes to technology and coding, many young Cambodians feel hesitant, assuming it requires natural brilliance to succeed. For Riya, stepping into the Technovation Girls Cambodia program when she was in high school felt just as daunting.

"I used to think technology was incredibly difficult. To be honest, I learned how to use a computer for the very first time through participating in this Technovations Girls Cambodia program,"  Riya recalled of her early days.

That humble beginning taught her a powerful lesson. Her initial fear of technology quickly transformed into courage, pushing her to experiment, collaborate, and eventually build functional digital projects that addressed real community issues.

Global Experiences and the Dream to Develop Cambodia's Education

The knowledge and confidence she built in Cambodia paved the way for an incredible global journey. Riya successfully earned a scholarship to Minerva University in the United States. During her Bachelor's degree in Economics and Business, she had the unique opportunity to live and study in seven different countries. This profound experience enabled her to actively engage with international tech education initiatives.

One of the proudest moments of her journey was becoming an active team member at the App Inventor Foundation of MIT App Inventor in the United States. MIT App Inventor is the exact coding platform used by students in the Technovation program and in schools worldwide. Evolving from a Cambodian student who learned to code on this very platform into a young professional directly contributing to its global development is a powerful testament to the true potential of our youth.

Yet, despite her international exposure, her ultimate goal remains focused on bringing that knowledge back home. Soon, Riya will begin her Master’s program in Technology, Innovation, and Education at the prestigious Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Studying in different countries has opened my eyes to the immense potential of educational technology. " she shared. “My goal at Harvard is to gain a deeper understanding of these systems so that I can bring this knowledge back, localize it, and build solutions tailored to the specific contexts and practical needs of our region."

Keeping the Spirit of Sharing Alive

Riya’s profound desire to share her experiences and guide the next generation represents the very heartbeat of the Tech for Kids Academy culture.

To strengthen this spirit and turn it into a sustainable system, Tech for Kids Academy is proud to officially announce the launch of the TKA Alumni Network at the upcoming RISE Week 2026 this July. How will this alumni network inspire and pave the way for the next generation of innovators? Stay tuned for the official launch at RISE Week to find out!

As a senior who deeply understands the anxiety and excitement of pitching on a grand stage, Chakriya shared a few words of encouragement for the teams currently preparing for the National Selection at RISE Week 2026:

• On Preparation: "The most practical advice is: do not leave things to the  last minute. Plan ahead and practice well before the deadline."

• "Ready" is a Decision: "Sometimes, you might feel like you aren’t fully    prepared. But 'ready' isn't just a feeling; it’s a decision. Sometime, you have to decide to do it, no matter what happens."

• Be Proud of Yourselves: "Winning or losing on competition day does not define your entire future. What truly matters is the courage you’ve already shown by stepping up and standing on that stage."

Riya’s experience is a beautiful reminder that while technology is a tool, a supportive educational ecosystem is what truly empowers youth to reach their dreams.

The successful implementation of this global tech education program is made possible by the unwavering support of our strategic partners and sponsors. We extend our deepest gratitude for the vital support from the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications , the co-organized by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport , and organized by Tech for Kids Academy. We are grateful to our main Sponsor, the CBRD Fund, our in-kinds sponsor, Khmer Enterprise, the study trip organized by Education and Future Abroad , and our media partner, The Cambodia China Times, as well as all partners who continue to invest in empowering the next generation.

Witness the Next Generation at RISE Week 2026!
What incredible solutions will our next generation of students unveil? We warmly invite the public to register, support the National Finalist teams, and witness the official launch of the TKA Alumni Network at RISE Week 2026, Cambodia’s premier youth innovation summit, on July 25-26, 2026.

👉 Secure your Free Pass here: https://luma.com/10hlz4eh
(Official venue announcement coming soon!)