On International Children’s Day, UNICEF Cambodia Appoints Ms. Shin Yubin as National Ambassador and Calls for Urgent Support for Children in Crisis

PHNOM PENH, 2 June 2026 – To mark International Children’s Day, UNICEF Cambodia yesterday announced the appointment of Ms. Shin Yubin as its first National Ambassador, while calling for renewed public and private sector support to close critical funding gaps affecting children and families in Cambodia.

The announcement was made during a high‑level event titled “Together for Every Child: From Healing to Hope,” which was presided over by the First Lady Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet.

Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet emphasized that for children, peace means safety within the family, the opportunity to go to school, smiles, growth without fear, and hope for the future. The First Lady also underscored that the consequences of recent conflicts have caused many Cambodian children to be separated from their families and to lose their homes, schools, and access to various public services, severely affecting their future opportunities. Furthermore, the First Lady expressed her gratitude and appreciation to UNICEF for partnering with the Royal Government of Cambodia over the past decades to support children's health, nutrition, education, protection, clean water, sanitation, and overall well-being. As a result, in recent years, many children have received opportunities to learn, access to quality healthcare, and loving care.

The event highlighted both progress and pressing challenges facing children in Cambodia, particularly those affected by emergencies, including the recent border crisis, which disrupted access to education, healthcare, protection, and family stability. The event brought together senior government representatives, Cambodian artists, development partners, private sector leaders, civil society, media, and young people to reaffirm a shared commitment to children’s recovery and long‑term well‑being.

The event also marked the official appointment of Ms. Shin Yubin as UNICEF Cambodia National Ambassador, strengthening UNICEF’s advocacy and fundraising efforts at a critical time.

“It is a great honour for me to take on this role on International Children’s Day,” said Ms. Shin Yubin, UNICEF Cambodia National Ambassador. “I have met children, parents, and families whose lives were disrupted by crisis, and I have seen how timely support can make a real difference. Every child has the right to learn in a safe school, access quality health care, and grow up protected from violence. I am committed to using my voice to encourage solidarity and support for children who need it most.”

Ms. Yubin Shin is a Cambodian actress who rose to prominence after winning the Freshie Girls & Boys talent contest in 2014, which led to her first leading role in a television drama. Since then, she has built a strong career across film and television, with several productions achieving notable popular success. She has also gained international recognition through appearances at major global events, including the Cannes Film Festival, where she drew attention for representing Cambodia. Earlier this year, she was appointed Cambodian Cultural Ambassador for the Asian Art Film Festival.

Since 2022, Ms. Shin Yubin has worked closely with UNICEF Cambodia, supporting advocacy around online safety, education, healthcare, World Children’s Day celebrations, and climate action, as well as fundraising efforts to assist children and families affected by emergencies in 2025 and 2026.

“Ms. Shin Yubin’s appointment comes at a moment when children need champions more than ever,” said Dr. Will Parks, UNICEF Cambodia Representative. “Her credibility, empathy, and ability to mobilise public support will help UNICEF reach more children and inspire greater investment in their recovery and future.”

UNICEF responded rapidly to support children and families affected by the border crisis, providing over 800 tons of life-saving supplies for protection services, continued education, health and nutrition support, safe water and sanitation, and psychosocial care. However, a critical funding gap of over US$2.1 million persists, jeopardizing recovery efforts and the continuity of essential services for children.

UNICEF Cambodia calls on individuals, businesses, and partners to step forward and help close this gap and support UNICEF’s core programmes, ensuring that children can recover safely and build a better future. Contributions will help ensure that children affected by crisis can survive, learn, and thrive, now and in the years ahead.

UNICEF Cambodia also expresses sincere appreciation to the Khmer Artists Association for their valued support in hosting the event. UNICEF continues to work with the Royal Government of Cambodia and partners to protect the rights of every child, especially the most vulnerable, so that no child is left behind.

More photos are available here.