Why closing the gap between opportunity and access is more important that ever
Helping learners turn opportunity into employment is at the core of SPOONS’ mission as an NGO. With nearly 3 million international visitors in early 2025 and a 50% increase in domestic travel, there is a strong demand for skilled hospitality professionals in Cambodia.
Yet many young people struggle to access training that prepares them for these roles—not just because opportunities are lacking, but because the training is not always delivered in a language they can fully engage with.
If you’ve ever tried to learn a new language, you will understand this pain point. Indeed, learning a new skill on its own is challenging, not to mention learning this skill in a foreign language.
👉 But why does language matter so much?
Building skills while learning in a language that builds confidence
In training environments, language barriers can slow progress, reduce confidence, and limit participation. SPOONS shift to a bilingual learning experience—in English and Khmer—changes that dynamic. By making the Kitchen Assistant curriculum available also in Khmer, learners can engage more actively, ask questions with confidence, and build a deeper understanding of their craft.
During this active translation process, SPOONS can already see the impact the program is having on the trainees, and it goes beyond learning just technical skills.
💬 “I've seen our trainees grow not only in skills but also in attitude and responsibility,” says Ms. Sok Kuntheary, the Head Chef Assistant at SPOONS.
💡 As their understanding improves, these young adults begin to see themselves not just as students—but as professionals.
A language shift with wider implications
Today, 25 students are progressing through the program, with graduation expected in July. As they come closer to completion, motivation grows:
💬 “This journey has opened my eyes to new possibilities and strengthened my passion for developing my skills," says Kosal.
Kosal's own resolve is in line with learners, who are showing stronger engagement and greater confidence as they see a clear path toward employment.
Localization as a catalyst for impact
For NGOs and training providers, the takeaway is a strong one: adapting content to local contexts can significantly improve outcomes. And as tourism and service industries continue to grow across Asia, the ability to deliver accessible, localized training at scale will become increasingly important.
What’s next for SPOONS?
SPOONS—based in Siem Reap—empowers vulnerable young adults through hospitality education that combines practical training, internships, and life skills development. As of today, they've helped over 500+ young adults launch their hospitality careers.
Since partnering with Global Swiss Learning (GSL) through Child’s Dream Foundation, the focus has extended beyond delivering high-quality Swiss culinary training to ensure that learning is locally relevant and inclusive. Building on this foundation, SPOONS will continue to expand its learning pathways by:
🟣 Launching a Bakery Program for local trainers and students
🟣 Progressing select learners into Level 2 of the Kitchen Assistant Program
Each step they take will, no doubt, continue to strengthen both training capacity and long-term employability outcomes for the students at SPOONS.
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