Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodiaâsbusiness, diplomatic, and social community has come together in a powerful show of solidarity to support Tiny Toones, a local organization providing free education, mentorship, and artistic expression opportunities to at-risk children. The recent Born for Greatness Gala, hosted by the Cambodia-Israel Chamber of Commerce (CICC), raised around $9,000 in a single evening, marking the launch of the “We Are Tiny Toones” fundraising campaign.
A Collective Effort to Sustain Tiny Toones
Held as a private, invitation-only event, the gala brought together prominent business leaders, diplomats, government officials, and influencers at full capacity, all committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of Tiny Toones. The event was attended by H.E. Orna Sagiv, Ambassador of Israel to Cambodia, and Neak Oknha Suo Vireak, Israelâs newly appointed Honorary Consul, as well as senior representatives from the Cambodian government.
Delivering a message on behalf of H.E. Professor Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, H.E. Dr. Som Ratana emphasized the government’s support for Tiny Toones and highlighted the role of art as a tool for youth empowerment and human capital development.
Business and Diplomacy Come Together for a Cause
The Born for Greatness campaign is not just a fundraiserâit is a movement aimed at securing the future of Tiny Toones by reforming its administrative structure, upgrading its facilities, and implementing a sustainable financial model. Beyond financial contributions, the campaign has seen strong backing from Cambodiaâs business and diplomatic community, with CICC leading the charge through strategic partnerships and initiatives.
The charity auction, a key highlight of the gala, was the final stage of the “I Am Great” art competition. This initiative saw at-risk youth from Tiny Toones and four other NGOsâISF Cambodia, Ptea Clara, Aokas, and COLTâcollaborate with professional artists to create unique artworks, telling stories of resilience and creativity. Eighteen out of 22 pieces were successfully auctioned, raising nearly $9,000.
The Road Ahead: A Four-Month Fundraising Campaign
The “We Are Tiny Toones” campaign aims to raise $50,000 over the next four months. The funds will help reform the school’s structure, ensure long-term financial stability, and maintain the only institution in Cambodia that provides at-risk children with free education through art, dance, and music.
Moran Hadad, President of the CICC and a serial social entrepreneur, emphasized that supporting Tiny Toones is a collective responsibility. “Saving Tiny Toones is not just the job of one organizationâit is the responsibility of all Cambodians. These children were neglected by society, and we must come together as a community to support their future.”
Tiny Toones: A School in Need of Support
Founded in 2005, Tiny Toones has served over 10,000 children, providing education, mentorship, and a safe space for self-expression. The school currently supports 150 students daily, with an 80% reintegration rate into Cambodiaâs national school system. However, financial struggles threaten its future, making community support more critical than ever.
Leap Pheakna, project lead at Born for Greatness, reinforced the urgency of the campaign.
“This campaign is about securing the schoolâs future. Without it, these kids may return to the streetsâsomething we cannot accept.”
Business and Community Partnerships Driving Change
The success of the gala and the ongoing campaign would not be possible without the generosity of Cambodiaâs business and diplomatic community, including key partners such as SraâArt Gallery, CashewNotes Cambodia, AZ-Group, Vireak Buntham (VET), Three Corner Coffee, Samai Rum Distillery, CĂŠliers dâAsie, Kado Khcambo, Station 350, Hanuman Beer, Bodia Spa, and Seekers Spirits.
How to Get Involved
The campaign will continue beyond the gala, providing opportunities for individuals and organizations to contribute. Donations can be made directly through the campaignâs official platforms, including:
đ Donation Link
Additionally, supporters can engage via social media, attend upcoming events, and spread awareness to help secure Tiny Toonesâ future.
For more information, media inquiries, or interview requests, contact:
đŠ bfg@israelichamber.com
đ Pheakna Leap: +855 11 99 15 80 (phone/Telegram)
Stay updated by following the campaign:
- Telegram: https://t.me/bornforgreatnesskh
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/bornforgreatnesskh
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/bornforgreatnesskh
Through the combined efforts of Cambodiaâs business, diplomatic, and social community, the goal is to ensure that Tiny Toones continues to provide education and opportunities for generations to come.
