Marvel Studios’ latest ensemble film, Thunderbolts, is now showing in cinemas across Cambodia. The movie brings together a team of antiheroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker. Directed by Jake Schreier, the film offers a fresh take on the superhero genre, focusing on characters with complex backgrounds and motivations.

Where to Watch in Phnom Penh

In Phnom Penh, Thunderbolts is screening at several major cinemas:

• Major Cineplex at Aeon Mall: Located on Sothearos Boulevard, this cinema offers standard, 3D, and 4DX screenings, providing an immersive viewing experience.
  
• Legend Cinema at Eden Garden: Situated in the Boeung Kak area, Legend Cinema is known for its comfortable seating and diverse snack options.
  
• Legend Cinema at Exchange Square: Located in the central business district, this venue offers convenient access for those working or residing nearby.

Where to Watch in Siem Reap

For viewers in Siem Reap, Thunderbolts is available at:

• Legend Cinema at Heritage Walk: This modern cinema offers both 2D and 3D screenings, with spacious seating and a selection of refreshments.
  
• Major Cineplex: Located in the city center, Major Cineplex provides a comfortable environment to enjoy the latest blockbusters.

What to Expect

Thunderbolts delves into the stories of characters who operate in the grey areas of heroism, offering a narrative that explores redemption and the complexities of morality. The film has received generally positive reviews, with an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and audiences have praised its ensemble cast and engaging storyline.

Discover more Arts & Culture in Cambodia Whether you’re a longtime Marvel fan or new to the franchise, Thunderbolts offers an action-packed experience that challenges traditional notions of heroism. With screenings available in both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, it’s an opportune time to catch this latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

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Cambodia’s hotel scene has just scored a major win on the global stage, with several locally owned properties securing top spots in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. This year’s rankings are a big deal for the Kingdom’s tourism industry, highlighting the exceptional hospitality and personalized experiences that have become hallmarks of Cambodian stays.

Leading the pack is Golden Temple Residence in Siem Reap, crowned the #1 Small & Boutique Hotel in the World. Its sister property, Golden Temple Hotel, claimed the #10 spot globally in the same category, while Golden Temple Boutique secured #9 in Asia. The recognition didn’t stop there – Golden Temple Retreat and Golden Temple Villa also made it into the global top 10, marking a significant achievement for the Temple Group.

Temple Group’s managing director, Lee Kimmey, expressed pride in the brand’s impact, noting that it’s about more than just rooms – it’s about creating unforgettable experiences. “We’re deeply proud that our properties are being recognised on this level. It’s not just about rooms – it’s about making people feel something real,” she said, reflecting the ethos that has made these hotels so popular among travelers.

Siem Reap Shines on the World Stage

While the Golden Temple properties dominated the boutique category, other Siem Reap hotels also stood out. Jaya House River Park, a serene retreat nestled along the banks of the Siem Reap River, claimed the #21 spot in the Luxury Hotel category. Known for its eco-friendly focus and stunning design, it’s a favorite for those seeking a more exclusive experience.

Another standout, Khmer Mansion Residence, earned praise for its warm, personalized service, solidifying Siem Reap’s status as a global hotspot for boutique luxury.

Phnom Penh’s Hidden Gem

Cambodia’s capital also got some love, with Palace Gate Hotel & Resort By Ehm ranked #24 in Asia. Located near the iconic Royal Palace, this property blends French colonial architecture with lush gardens, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Guests consistently highlight its impeccable service and prime location as key reasons for its top-tier ranking.

A Testament to Local Excellence

Thim Sereyvudh, director of the Siem Reap Tourism Department, pointed out that many of these award-winning properties are locally owned – a source of immense national pride. “I have travelled abroad, and in some cases, even four-star hotels in Europe do not match our level of hospitality and food service,” he said, emphasizing the unique, guest-centric approach that sets Cambodian hotels apart.

From personalized service to diverse culinary options that cater to a wide range of international tastes, Cambodian hotels have clearly found a winning formula. This recognition underscores the growing reputation of Cambodian hospitality, proving that world-class service isn’t just about luxury – it’s about making guests feel at home, wherever they come from.

More Hidden Gems to Explore

For those planning their next Cambodian getaway, there are plenty of other standout stays to consider. FCC Angkor by Avani, with its colonial charm and riverside location, and Shinta Mani Angkor, known for its striking design and social impact focus, also offer exceptional experiences in Siem Reap. Meanwhile, Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh remains a timeless favorite for those seeking old-world elegance in the heart of the capital.

Cambodia’s boutique hotel scene is clearly having a moment, and if these awards are anything to go by, that moment is just getting started.

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Cambodia is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable tourism with the official launch of Destination Eco-Talents (DET), a flagship initiative of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), unveiled during a major workshop in Siem Reap from March 26 to 28, 2025.

The three-day event brought together nearly 80 tourism stakeholders from across the Mekong region—including Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand—to develop a shared vision for eco-tourism that empowers communities and preserves cultural heritage.

Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat and a gateway for millions of international visitors, has been chosen as the pilot site for the DET programme. Cambodia’s selection reflects its growing reputation as a destination for mindful travel and its potential to model sustainable practices for the rest of the Francophone world. According to Edgar Doerig, OIF’s Asia-Pacific representative, “Cambodia holds a strategic role as a pilot and future model for the DET initiative.”

What the DET Project Means for Cambodia

The Destination Eco-Talents initiative aims to strengthen local capacities through vocational training, create inclusive tourism opportunities, and support environmental and cultural preservation. It focuses especially on empowering women, youth, and rural communities—groups often left behind in traditional tourism models.

His Excellency Dr Thok Sokhom, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism, called the workshop “a crucial step in defining a roadmap for sustainable tourism development.” He noted that the project aligns with Cambodia’s national vision to become a high-income country by 2050 and supports the government’s commitment to green tourism, cultural preservation, and human capital investment.

Cambodian tourism consultant Marta Saya highlighted the success of community-based ecotourism in places like Koh Trong, where ecotourism has significantly boosted household incomes, reduced dependence on seasonal agriculture, and improved local infrastructure. “Investing in eco-talent is not just about developing skills,” she said, “but about training a generation of leaders who see sustainable development as both a livelihood and a legacy.”

A Regional and Inclusive Vision

The DET project is also a vehicle for regional cooperation, linking the tourism sectors of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam with a shared focus on sustainability. Speakers at the workshop presented strategies for balancing growth with conservation, introducing smart tourism technologies, and supporting local communities through inclusive models.

Laos, for example, emphasized its desire to avoid mass tourism and protect natural sites, while Vietnam presented green tourism strategies supported by waste reduction, digital platforms, and wildlife protection initiatives.

The Greater Mekong Subregion tourism strategy was also highlighted, with an emphasis on connectivity, shared standards, and the “Six Countries, One Destination” campaign to promote regional experiences.

Training the Future of Tourism

A key takeaway from the workshop was the urgent need for training and education. Cambodia’s hospitality sector continues to face a shortage of skilled workers post-pandemic. Representatives from vocational institutions such as the Paul Dubrule School and Sala Baï Hotel School shared insights into training programs that are already helping prepare the next generation of tourism professionals, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds.

According to the French Development Agency, nearly €75 million has already been invested in Cambodia’s vocational training sector since 2012, with new schools now operating in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.

A Model for Sustainable Development

The DET initiative represents a larger effort by the Francophonie to promote sustainable tourism as a catalyst for socio-economic development, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange. As Cambodia prepares to host the World Francophonie Summit in 2026, its role in this initiative reflects growing recognition of the country’s leadership in responsible tourism.

The event, organized by All Dreams Cambodia and supported by carbon offsetting measures, also underscores a commitment to climate-conscious development. A total of 36 tonnes of CO2 emissions from the event were offset, with credits going toward local sustainability projects.With Siem Reap at its center, Destination Eco-Talents signals a bold new chapter in Cambodia’s tourism journey—one focused on sustainability, inclusion, and long-term community impact.

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As global trade tensions continue to escalate, businesses and individuals in Cambodia must stay informed about how tariffs could affect their operations, lifestyle, and future opportunities. Despite a 90-day pause on the sweeping tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Trump, concerns about global trade and economic instability remain unresolved. With China retaliating by imposing its own tariffs on the United States, the situation is far from over. These shifts in international trade policies are bound to have ripple effects, and it’s crucial for businesses and professionals in Cambodia to understand how these changes could impact them.

Why Tariffs Matter for Cambodia

EuroCham Cambodia is hosting an exclusive event, Global Trade Tensions: Are You Tariff Ready?, to help individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of tariffs and trade controls. This informative luncheon will provide insights into the practical implications of global trade tensions, with a specific focus on how Cambodia will be affected. As countries around the world adjust their tariffs, businesses in Cambodia could face both new opportunities and significant challenges.

Edwin Vanderbruggen, Senior Partner at Andersen in Cambodia and Vietnam, will lead the discussion, offering expertise on trade controls and their implications. As a lecturer at the Foreign Trade University in Hanoi, Vanderbruggen’s deep understanding of international trade will be invaluable for businesses in Cambodia that need to understand the nuances of these issues. He will be joined by Stephen Higgins, Managing Partner at Mekong Strategic Capital, who will share additional insights into how businesses can prepare for the evolving trade landscape.

Key Topics to Expect:

• The implications of reciprocal tariffs on Cambodia: What do they mean for businesses and consumers?
  
• A closer look at whether countries can increase tariffs under World Trade Organization (WTO) or Free Trade Agreement (FTA) rules.
  
• How shifting production from China to Cambodia and Vietnam could impact customs duties.
  
• The impact on industries beyond goods: How will sectors like banking, telecoms, tourism, and digital services be affected by a potential trade war?
  

Why You Should Attend

In a rapidly changing global economy, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Understanding the potential impacts of global trade tensions on your business or lifestyle can make all the difference when navigating these uncertain times. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or simply an individual interested in understanding how these global issues may affect your daily life, this event will provide you with the knowledge you need to stay prepared.

Event Details:

• Date: April 24, 2025
  
• Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  
• Venue: Topaz Norodom
  
• Tickets:
  
  • EuroCham Member: $40
    
  • Non-Member: $60

Register Now

Tickets are selling fast for this essential event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain expert insights into how global tariffs are shaping Cambodia’s future. Secure your spot today through the EuroCham registration link.

For more information, contact Dinuttama Chhay, Senior Events & Partnership Officer at EuroCham Cambodia, at event.officer@eurocham-cambodia.org.

Stay ahead of global trade tensions and be prepared for what lies ahead in the evolving economic landscape.

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Recently crowned the friendliest country in ASEAN and ranked fourth in the world by global survey site Datapandas.org, Cambodia is fast becoming one of the world’s most welcoming destinations—an accolade that’s not just boosting national pride and enriching the lives of those who live in the Kingdom, but drawing in travellers from all corners of the globe.

At the heart of this rising hospitality star is its greatest asset: its people. Whether you’re wandering the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, sipping iced coffee along Phnom Penh’s riverside, or relaxing on the beaches of Kep, it’s the Cambodian warmth that stays with you long after your trip ends. For many, that trademark smile and gentle greeting isn’t just surface-level service—it’s a deep-rooted cultural value.

“This ranking not only boosts national pride but highlights the values we cherish: kindness, respect, and genuine connection,” said Thourn Sinan, Chairman of IMCT and the Pacific Asia

Travel Association Cambodia chapter.

Experts say this ‘soft power’—the nation’s ability to attract and influence through hospitality and cultural charm—is shaping Cambodia’s future as a global tourism leader. For travellers, it means more than just a friendly face. It translates into unforgettable experiences, longer stays, and stories worth sharing.

Get More Travel Info for Cambodia

To keep the momentum going, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism and industry players have rolled out various initiatives: from community-based tourism and eco-friendly projects to hospitality training and culture-focused festivals. The goal? To ensure visitors not only feel welcomed, but valued.

Visitors are increasingly encouraged to engage meaningfully with local communities—whether it’s through village homestays, supporting artisans, or participating in traditional events. It’s tourism with heart, and it’s changing the game for sustainable travel in Southeast Asia.

Pa Chanroeun, President of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy, celebrated the ranking as a powerful symbol of hope. “Even though Cambodia has faced challenges in the past, this recognition shows the world that kindness, hospitality, and human connection are our greatest strengths,” he said.

While friendliness is a strong magnet for visitors, leaders are also prioritizing practical improvements—enhancing safety, refining tourism infrastructure, and encouraging moral values in schools to ensure this welcoming spirit continues for generations.

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From the ancient city of Siem Reap to the modern energy of Phnom Penh and the laid-back coastlines of the south, Cambodia is opening its arms—and doors—to the world. With a growing reputation as a top-tier destination rooted in friendliness, charm, and authentic experiences, the question isn’t why visit Cambodia now.It’s why haven’t you already?

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The 14th edition of the Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) came to a spectacular close, leaving both expats and tourists in awe of the Kingdom’s thriving cinematic scene. Held from March 24 to 29, 2025, the week-long festival saw over 150 screenings and events unfold across Phnom Penh, drawing large crowds and celebrating everything from Cambodia’s cultural heritage to global storytelling.

The festival officially opened with a glittering ceremony at Chaktomuk Hall, where hundreds gathered in anticipation. For many visitors and film lovers from abroad, it was an extraordinary opportunity to immerse themselves in Cambodia’s powerful storytelling tradition and its dynamic role in global cinema.

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CIFF Director Cedric Eloy welcomed guests by emphasizing the festival’s mission to bridge Cambodia with its diaspora and the world. He highlighted Vakhim, a deeply moving documentary about a Cambodian-born man raised in Italy who returns to reconnect with his homeland. The presence of Vakhim Borra and his mother at the opening ceremony added an emotional layer to the evening, symbolizing the power of film to unite, heal, and rediscover identity.

Marking 50 years since the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power, CIFF curated a poignant retrospective featuring 15 films and events reflecting on this dark chapter in Cambodian history. The inclusion of these works resonated deeply with international audiences, many of whom were introduced to the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people for the first time through cinema.

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This year’s festival themes, Women’s Stories from the World and Waters of Life, gave prominence to female voices and environmental consciousness. CIFF Goodwill Ambassador Sophy Odom captivated the audience with her personal story of transformation—from refugee to advocate—and emphasized the power of storytelling to inspire change. Her announcement of plans to build the first Cambodian Genocide Memorial outside of Cambodia, in Australia, was met with heartfelt applause.

The emotional highs continued with Victoria Bousis, director of Stay Alive My Son, who spoke about her decade-long love affair with Cambodia and how the memoir by Yathay Pin shaped her understanding of the country’s enduring strength. “This is more than a commemoration,” she said. “It’s a homecoming.”

Beyond Phnom Penh

The festival’s reach extended to Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kep West, where additional screenings were planned, showcasing the growing popularity of cinema as a medium for both tourism and cultural diplomacy.

For the expat community and international visitors, the 14th CIFF was not just a film festival—it was an unforgettable cultural experience and a testament to Cambodia’s emerging role on the global cinematic stage. From deeply personal documentaries to environmental storytelling and traditional retrospectives, CIFF proved once again that Cambodia has stories the world is ready to hear.

In a city often praised for its street food and temple tours, this cinematic celebration offered something refreshingly different: a front-row seat to Cambodia’s soul.

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Every weekend, as the golden hour descends over the Tonle Sap River, Phnom Penh’s riverside promenade transforms into a vibrant, car-free cultural celebration known as Walk Street — and it’s quickly becoming the city’s favorite way to spend a Saturday or Sunday night.

Launched as a pilot by the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration, Walk Street stretches from Street 94 near Paschim Chamkorn to the front of the Royal Palace. Open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, the initiative has turned a bustling road into a pedestrian paradise. The sights, sounds, and spirit of Cambodia come alive on this scenic stretch of Sisowath Quay.

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Families, friends, and tourists have been flocking to the riverside to enjoy the electric mix of activities — from classical Khmer music and traditional dance performances to community shows, lively circus acts, and even mobile libraries offering books to curious passersby.

“The mix of culture and community is really special,” said one local vendor. “It feels like the city is opening its heart.”

His Excellency Khuong Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh, has championed the project as part of a broader initiative to promote urban livability and cultural appreciation. The Walk Street aligns perfectly with Phnom Penh’s growing vision to provide safe, inclusive, and joyful public spaces for residents and visitors alike.

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As the event gains popularity, the city is adapting to meet demand. Public bus lines 2A, 3, and 4A now operate extended hours on weekends until 11:00 p.m., making it easier for people across the capital to access the event without the hassle of parking or traffic.

With its early success, there’s a growing sense that Walk Street could become a permanent fixture on Phnom Penh’s social calendar. As the sun sets and traditional melodies float through the riverside air, it’s clear that Walk Street offers more than just a walk — it’s a celebration of Khmer culture, community, and connection.Planning to go? Head down just before sunset to catch the full experience — performers hit the pavement around 6:30 p.m., and food stalls and vendors line the street with everything from iced Khmer coffee to fresh local snacks. The city has brought the charm; all you need to do is bring your walking shoes.

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Cambodia just made a bold leap into the future of storytelling—and it’s sending ripples far beyond its borders.

In a landmark moment for the Kingdom’s cultural and technological landscape, Stay Alive My Son, a groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) experience based on the harrowing memoir of Khmer Rouge survivor Pin Yathay, made its Cambodia debut at the 14th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF). And for both locals and international visitors, it marked something extraordinary: the convergence of memory, technology, and emotion in one powerful, immersive journey.

Directed and developed by award-winning filmmaker and technologist Victoria Bousis, the project transforms Yathay’s true story into an interactive cinematic experience, using cutting-edge VR technology to bring viewers face-to-face with the trauma—and hope—that defined Cambodia’s darkest chapter. Starring French-Cambodian actress Elodie Yung, the film was presented to audiences at the Bophana Centre, marking what Bousis called a “homecoming” for both the story and her creative journey.

“This isn’t just a film. It’s a tribute to resilience, a call for remembrance, and a powerful tool for education,” Bousis shared at a panel event at Rosewood Hotel. “It’s a big step forward for Cambodia—a place where storytelling and innovation are now walking hand-in-hand.”

For Cambodia, a country still reckoning with the legacy of its past, the film is more than just entertainment. It’s a testament to how far the Kingdom has come in embracing new ways to heal and educate. The experience—part film, part game, all heart—lets users live Yathay’s story. With stunning visuals, spatial sound, and interactive design, the VR medium allows viewers to walk through his journey, experiencing moments of fear, love, guilt, and, ultimately, survival.

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“I wanted the audience to feel his heartbreak, but also his strength,” Bousis said. “Because when we embody someone else’s truth, we’re more likely to carry that understanding into the real world.”

The impact of Stay Alive My Son has already gone global. It’s been screened at XR festivals, honored with awards like the 2023 Producers Guild Innovation Award and Games for Change’s Best Social Impact Award, and even shown to diplomats and decision-makers through the UNHCR in an effort to influence international refugee and human rights policy.

Back home, its significance is equally profound. For younger Cambodians, the VR film serves as a modern-day bridge to a history that can feel distant. For tourists and expats, it offers an emotionally charged and deeply human window into the country’s resilience—and why its people remain its greatest strength.

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Pin Yathay himself, whose memoir inspired the project, called the adaptation a vital record. “I am a witness,” he said. “And it is my duty to inform the new generation and the world what occurred during the Khmer Rouge regime, so we never repeat the past.”

As Cambodia looks ahead to a future shaped by creativity, innovation, and global connection, Stay Alive My Son stands as a shining example of what’s possible when technology is used with purpose and passion. It’s a reminder that even the most painful stories can be transformed into experiences that educate, empower, and unite.

For the Kingdom, this is more than just a film—it’s a milestone. Now’s the time to visit Cambodia, not only to explore its ancient wonders but also to witness how its creative industries are breaking new ground, giving voice to the voiceless and proving that the future of storytelling has a Khmer heart.

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The Sorn Foundation is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion faced by many women and children in rural Cambodia. The foundation strives to empower individuals with the tools they need to build a better future by providing education, essential skills training, and community development programs.

Founded by Nicola Clements and Somphors Sorn, this independent charity focuses on reducing Violence Against Women (VAW) through grassroots education and training initiatives. Programs include Khmer and English language education, women’s rights awareness, parenting support, and sustainable living projects such as vegetable growing and livestock rearing. Additionally, the foundation runs a community enterprise hub to provide mentorship and business development support.

Tom Starkey sat down with founder and fellow mancunian Nicky to talk about the organisation’s mission and how to get involved. 

Q&A with Nicky, Founder of The Sorn Foundation

Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your NGO’s mission?

I’m Nicky, founder of The Sorn Foundation, a charity registered in both the UK and Cambodia. We provide free education to underprivileged children, teaching both English and Khmer to help them reach the same level as their peers. Our goal is to give them real opportunities for the future. English is a gateway language. The biggest challenge is funding—without enough support, the school can’t survive.

What impact has your NGO made so far, and what are some highlights?

We’ve built a school from nothing and now provide education to kids who would otherwise have no access. Some of our students now dream of becoming doctors, engineers, and teachers, which is incredible. A big moment for us was when the UK Ambassador to Cambodia visited our school—it was a proud milestone.

A personal highlight for me is my co-founder, Somphors. I met her while volunteering, and we helped her go to university. She wanted to give back, and now she’s a key part of the charity. She inspires me every day.

What makes your organization unique in its approach?

We don’t just teach—we’re part of the community. We’re working towards locals eventually running the school themselves, but they’re not ready yet, so I need to be there. We also run on a small budget, relying on direct support rather than big grants. Every donation makes an immediate impact.

Without The Sorn Foundation, these kids would fall behind their peers and have little chance of breaking the cycle of poverty. Education is the key to changing their future. Our school is also a safe, supportive place that gives them hope.

How can people support or get involved?

We need donations to keep the school running—monthly supporters make the biggest difference. We also welcome volunteers, especially teachers or people who can help with content creation. Businesses can sponsor a teacher or donate resources. Even just sharing our story helps.

What do you love most about working in Cambodia?

I love the simple life in the village and the strong sense of community—everyone looks out for each other. But the best part is the kids. Seeing their excitement to learn, even with all the challenges they face, makes it all worth it.

To learn more about The Sorn Foundation or to support their mission, visit them today!

Website: https://thesornfoundation.org/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-sorn-foundation-9028501b0/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesornfoundation 

Charity Registration No: 1201859

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