World Children’s Day: Inclusion and Dreams for Two Brothers
Two brothers, living with a rare skin condition, found joy and belonging at a vibrant festival celebrating inclusion, culture, and dreams for all children.
- English
- Khmer
23 November 2024, Senmonorom, Mondulkiri – A wave of joy swept through the Cultural Phummeen Village Festival as 12,000 attendees celebrated World Children's Day. This three-day festival, a first in Mondulkiri Province, was not just a festive gathering but also an educational platform where children learned about their rights while engaging in games and traditional dances on this special day.
Among the happy faces at the festival were two brothers, Sokheng, 11, and Sokchea, 7, both living with ichthyosis—a condition that affects their skin. And because of this, they often feel left out in their community. But today was different – their faces lit up with smiles as they participated in various games and activities.
Guided by 45 enthusiastic UNICEF youth volunteers, children at the festival could experience UNICEF's impact firsthand. Sokheng showed his skills at an eco-friendly bowling game, winning school supplies, while Sokchea enjoyed coloring and learning about nutrition. Other stations included a "I Feel Better When" tree for sharing hopes, a face-painting booth turning kids into elephants, and a WASH station teaching handwashing skills.
Parents and caregivers also found value in the festival, learning from information booths about parenting, vaccinations, and support services crucial for low-income families. "Sokheng loves his new chalkboard and notebook," said their father, Senghai Hoi, who runs a small shop with his wife.
"I'm so happy that Cambodian actress Shin Yubin gave him the gift, and Sokchea was excited to take a picture with her. They're already using their new school bags." He proudly showed photos to everyone around.
Fighting back tears as Sokchea held onto his leg, their father added, "Thank you so much to UNICEF for making my boys so happy. We rarely see them smile like this. Seeing them included with other children means everything to us."
The festival also honored Cambodia’s rich culture with traditional performances, capturing the boys' imaginations with the story of "Kuch Reung Kuchrey," about a child of an elephant mother. Sokheng was thrilled, "I loved the dancers and the elephant story!"
For Sokheng, Sokchea, and other children with disabilities, World Children's Day in Mondulkiri showed how an accessible and welcoming environment creates equal opportunities for all children to participate and dream big. With support from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the celebration brought together Cambodia's Village Festival spirit with UNICEF's mission to help every child thrive, demonstrating to local leaders how to build a more inclusive future for all children.
