GlobalGiving.org: Cambodian Disability Sports Development

krom release first single: " I walked the line "

CNVLD — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 01:26:37 GMT

krom (the group) release first single, i walked the line: A project of the CNVLD

" Raising awareness of the ability of Cambodian persons with a disability"

I walked the line, the debut single from krom was put on general release on vcd format in music stores across Phnom Penh, Cambodia on

The single has also been released for free download online at the Mekong Sessions You Tube site via the link: http://www.youtube.com/user/themekongsessions?feature=mhum

Built on a Kottkesque roll with Khmer+ English vocals and instrumentation, krom are the first band to debut on the newly launched Mekong Sessions label.

krom vocalist; Tata, a Cambodian woman with a disability expressed the desire for krom to act as a catalyst for more singers with a disability to gain greater employment opportunities in the entertainment business.

krom have released little information regarding future material or performances only hinting that their next single; a wee boogie called “ prahok” will be released in six months.

“Elusive, Exclusive and Reclusive” is the band motto and try as we might we can do nothing to change that,” a spokesman close to krom stated on condition on anonymity yesterday.

krom - the group:

tata: vocals

minko: guitar and vocals

ian white: guitar

jimi baeck: accordion

brian webster: drums

kim bunthan: khmer violin

band matriarch: the om

The single: i walked the line

minko: music + words

ian white: producer

photography: luke duggleby

video: ian white + Darren campbell

artwork: Keith Kelly

UN Volunteers assist CNVLD with new website designs

CNVLD — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 02:37:19 GMT

United Nations Volunteers Assist CNVLD with new website designs

This story can be viewed at: http://www.standupcambodia.net/headline-news/124-united-nations-volunteers-assist-cnvld-with-new-web-designs.html

The CNVLD is pleased to announce a special partnership with the United Nations Volunteer Program which is providing web design experts to assist in the development of two exciting new websites.

United Nations Volunteers web designers will work in close cooperation with the CNVLD local tech team to assist in the development of two special new websites:

www.2011volleyballworldcup.org : The official website for the 2011 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup scheduled for July 2011

www.standingvolleyball.net : A new site dedicated to news, discussions and global developments in the sport of Standing Volleyball - acknowledged as one of the most cost-effective sports in the world and perfectly suited to enabling persons with a disability, most especially amputees in post-conflict nations, to engage in sports development with minimal capital outlay. The major aim of the new website is to join a collective voice to the global calls for the re-instatement of Standing Volleyball into the Paralympic Games.

The CNVLD thanks UNV for Standing Up with the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

Watch out for the hottest new sports websites on the court!

10th B'day National V'ball League in PP Post

CNVLD — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 03:44:05 GMT

The 10th Anniversary Cellcard Cambodian National Volleyball League featured in the Phnom Penh Post last week.

The addition of three new teams and the preparations for the 2011 WOVD Volleyball World Cup are the focus of the article which ran in the 8 September issue of the Phnom Penh Post in both English and Khmer.

READ: 'CNVLD BOASTS 13 TEAMS' IN THE PHNOM PENH POST

Links:

10th Anniversary National Volleyball League features in PP Post

ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Athletes Hard in Training

CNVLD — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 03:38:59 GMT

The 35 athletes of the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix remain hard in training around Cambodia as they prepare for the 2010 National Championships in December.

The five ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix teams in Phnom Penh, Battambang, Kompong Speu and Kompong Chhnang have upped the ante in 2010, training every week as standards rapidly rise in the hope of being selected for future international races, with plans developing for the first ever international wheelchair race to be hosted in Phnom Penh.

Australian photographer James Lauritz, on assignment with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), recently captured the Phnom Penh Racing Team coached reigning national champion and London 2012 Paralympic hopeful Van Vun in full flight while training in the centre of the capital.

Following his return from the Geelong Wheelchair Racing Camp earlier in the year, Van Vun established this new team whose youth, dedication and fitness have finessed into a tight knit squad whose training activities also include weekly swimming and gym work.

Watch this space for upcoming announcements on the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix National Championships.

Links:

Visit the new AOCVD website

CNVLD — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 03:26:08 GMT

The Asia Oceania Committee for Volleyball Disabled (AOCVD) has launched their new website. As a strong regional supporter, the CNVLD congratulates AOCVD on their new site and looks forward to contributing news and events through 2010 and the future!

The CNVLD fully supports the AOCVD in their objective to:"promote the sports of volleyball among disabled in the Asia Region to compete at the international arena. In addition, AOCVD aims to promote and encourage the private sectors and corporate to be involved and committed to our cause while at the same time fulfill their social responsibilities through sports."

Visit AOCVD website

Links:

Gemeinde Eichenholz donate to the CNVLD

CNVLD — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 03:23:33 GMT

Gemeinde Eichenholz , a German sports organization established by Gunther Feitl, has generously donated €700 in support of the CNVLD’s sporting programmes.

Gemeinde Eichenholz is one of the CNVLD’s most reliable sponsors, actively contributing to the athletes with a disability of Cambodia through fund-raising activities in Germany every year since 2004.

The organization's efforts reflect the continuing importance of local, voluntary, community-led efforts in effecting positive social change on a global scale as well as reflecting the close bonds of solidarity between Cambodia and Germany.

The CNVLD thanks Gemeinde Eichenholz, Gunther Feitl and everyone in Germany, who through their generosity and consistent support, contribute greatly to enabling the athletes with a disability of Cambodia to Stand Up!

Links:

Gemeinde Eichenholz donate to the CNVLD

Beneficiaries of Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh

Chris Minko — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:33:54 GMT

Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh

Thanks to the exceptional generosity of Leonard Cohen and AEG Live, proceeds from the Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh concert on 27 November 2010 will benefit the Cambodian Red Cross and Cambodian athletes with a disability.

1. Cambodian Red Cross The Mekong Sessions is proud of its association with Cambodian Red Cross and, by inviting globally renowned cultural icons to perform benefit concerts, is honoured to be able to contribute to CRC's ongoing humanitarian work.

The Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh concert at the Olympic Stadium will be performed under the patronage and in the presence of Lok Chumteav BUN RANY HUN SEN President of Cambodian Red Cross, marking it as one of the ASEAN gala cultural events of the year.

The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) is the largest humanitarian organization in Cambodia. Established on 18 February 1955, it is officially recognized by the Royal Government as an auxiliary to the public authorities in humanitarian services to relieve the sufferings of the most vulnerable.

Acknowledged by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on October 7 1960, the CRC was admitted as a Member of the International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies (the Federation) on 8 October 1960. However, during the Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979), all Red Cross activities in Cambodia were suspended and the CRC's seat in the General Assembly of the Federation was left vacant. Between 1979 and 1994, the CRC lost its national unity as each of the four warring factions in Cambodia set up their own Society within their respective areas of control. However, the NS was reunified in 1994 and the CRC was reinstated to the Federation.

The Seven Fundamental Principles of the RC & RC Movement Proclaimed in Vienna in 1965, the seven Fundamental Principles bond together the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. They guarantee the continuity of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement and its humanitarian work.

Humanity The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, co-operation and lasting peace amongst all people.

Impartiality It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Independence The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

Voluntary Service It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.

Unity There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Universality The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.

The Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia

Starting with a simple mandate in 1995: ‘to raise awareness of disability and landmines in Cambodia’, the Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled) - CNVLD has successfully established the world’s only national standing volleyball league, nurtured a Cambodian National Volleyball team to World No. 4 ranking, developed a national wheelchair racing programme with a special focus on women with a disability, brought an Asia- Pacific Championship and two Standing Volleyball World Cups to Cambodia, and has persuaded Leonard Cohen to play a benefit concert in Phnom Penh on 27.11.10 in support of PwDs of Cambodia. The CNVLD is the ONLY organisation in Cambodia to receive a UN Best Practices Award for Development and international institutions openly recognise its successes as being a decade ahead of the now global interest in sports and development.

PwDs remain among the most marginalised in Cambodian society with exceptionally limited access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities. Through participation in the highly disciplined CNVLD sports programmes, 75% of more than 2000+ CNVLD athletes have gone on to gain meaningful employment and become acknowledged, respected leaders in their communities. Through strictly managed, equitable training subsidies and prize money, the CNVLD provides a sustainable basis for personal empowerment and fiscal responsibility. Since 2007, the CNVLD has achieved sustainability through corporate sponsorship with a clear, unwavering belief in the need for encouraging corporate social responsibility as a means to push social justice issues and provide support for the most vulnerable in society.

The National Volleyball League and ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix offer the most lucrative prizes in Cambodian sport and all CNVLD athletes now have personal bank accounts. Oversight of all finances by ANZ Royal Bank guarantees the highest levels of transparency. By hosting increasingly prestigious international events, the CNVLD directly and indirectly stimulates broad sectors of the local economy, driving further demand for transparency and quality. In creating and encouraging inspiration and hope through the unique power of sport, the CNVLD acts as a catalyst for individuals and communities to stand up with dignity and pride, accelerating their emergence from often crippling poverty. The organisation provides an essential service in a highly challenging environment and its scope is limited only by resources given the 40,000+ Cambodian landmine survivors and a rising disability demographic through traffic and industrial accidents.

Beyond the immediate impact on the persons with a disability, one of the greatest unsung achievements has been the successful recruitment of over 300 young Cambodians from highly reputable corporate entities such as ANZ Royal Bank, Cellcard and Digital Divide Data who work as volunteers at CNVLD sports events. Volunteerism remains in its infancy in Cambodia and the efforts of these young Cambodians, who effectively manage all aspects of the events, in support of the athletes with a disability of Cambodia and the world continues to be truly remarkable and ultimately a stinging rebuttal of claims that self interest prevails among local youth.

The 2009 Cambodia Cellcard WOVD Volleyball World Cup saw six nations compete to capacity 5000 people crowds at the Olympic Stadium, whose dilapidated state almost made the event impossible to host. During the tournament, 14 hours of live prime time television coverage on CTN saw the entire nation rejoice in pride that the global sporting community was returning to Cambodia. Eventual winners and three time World Champions Germany subsequently voted the event the ‘Best World Cup we’ve ever attended’ and after receiving unabashed support from local fans in the final after Cambodia went out in the semis, many of the German team were reduced to tears of joy. The entire team have pledged their attendance at the Leonard Cohen concert.

In 2011, Cambodia will once again welcome athletes with a disability of the world to the Olympic Stadium, thanks to the proceeds from the Cohen concert allowing a full interior refurbishment and renovation, for another Volleyball World Cup - the third to be hosted in the nation in 4 years.

Since 1995 the CNVLD has established a national disability sporting infrastructure, pioneered corporate social responsibility in Cambodia and irreversibly altered attitudes and perceptions towards athletes with a disability who are now considered the nations true sporting heroes. None of this existed or was believed possible prior to this impetus. The CNVLD’s efforts have gained consistently high profile global media coverage in the world’s most prestigious publications whose unerringly positive portrayals of the achievements of the athletes with a disability of Cambodia have impacted immensely on perceptions of landmine survivors and Cambodia. In 2010 PwDs of Cambodia are a source of pride to the nation and encapsulate its future hopes.

The CNVLD has undoubtedly succeeded beyond all expectations: from its inception - with 10 athletes sourced at a post-conflict rehabilitation camp - to a globally recognised, award-winning institution whicdespite often struggling with resources, has become a permanent, revered part of the Cambodian social landscape. The CNVLD has worked tirelessly since 1995 with staff on volunteer level remuneration and has been a consistently outspoken critic of the excesses and failures of the aid and development industry.

The athletes and the wider disability community consider the CNVLD their own and trust it implicitly. Working to a strict results-driven mantra, the CNVLD’s hugely significant contributions as a local Cambodian organisation are unquestionably Cambodia’s gain.

Ther Mekong Sessions thanks Leonard Cohen and AEG Live for their generosity in assisting Cambodian Red Cross and the athletes with a disability of Cambodia.

Links:

Cohen Phnom Penh Ticket Sales Announced

Chris Minko — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 07:13:18 GMT

Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh - 27.11.10

The Mekong Sessions is pleased to announce the formal dates for the sales of tickets to Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh at the Olympic Stadium on 27 November 2010.

600 tickets have been reserved for Cambodian residents given the phenomenal level of local interest with high pre-sales also anticipated through fan clubs. “Tickets for Cambodian residents will be available for purchase online via a special ticketing link 24 hours before the general release of tickets on July 15,” Mr. Christopher Minko CEO Mekong Sessions said, advising fans to book their tickets quickly due to the very high demand.

All ticket sales are only available online. No telephone bookings will be accepted. The following linnks will go live at the times below:

09.00 GMT July 14: Cambodian Residents pre-sales:

http://www.seetickets.com/aeglive/leonard-cohen-cambodia

09.00 GMT July 15: General sales:

http://www.seetickets.com/aeglive/?a=leonard+cohen&filler2=general

Resident’s presales will be disabled at 08.00 GMT July 15 and tickets must be collected from the Mekong Sessions office by the end of July.

Links:

Leonard Cohen to play benefit concert in Phnom Penh

the mekong sessions — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:36:24 GMT

Leonard Cohen Live in Phnom Penh

LEONARD COHEN TO PLAY PHNOM PENH ON NOV. 27, 2010 A LEGENDARY ARTIST – A LEGENDARY CITY

To celebrate and contribute to the restoration of the majestic city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Leonard Cohen will perform at the Olympic Stadium on November 27, 2010. To aid victims of Cambodia’s recent tragic past, proceeds from this concert will benefit the Cambodian Red Cross and Cambodian persons with a disability. Tickets available online on July 15, 2010.

Full International Media Release 17 June, 2010 attached as .pdf

Visit: www.themekongsessions.com

Links:

Attachments:

Leonard Cohen - Live in Phnom Penh - Media Release (PDF)

CNVLD joins Nat Geo Global Action Atlas project

CNVLD — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:29:23 GMT

Nat Geo Global Atlas Action project

The CNVLD is proud to announce its participation by invitation in the National Geographic Global Action Atlas project.

The National Geographic Global Action Atlas project is an exciting and innovative new initiative with a mission to engage people to discover and support a planet-spanning array of local efforts to solve the major challenges facing society and nature.

Global Action Atlas' vision is to tap the worldwide reach and convening power of National Geographic to mobilize a vast corps of concerned world citizens to support thousands of local projects that will collectively bring positive change to the world.

The GAA web platform has subsequently been created to help nonprofit organizations tell engaging stories of their efforts to solve major world problems at local scales. By publicizing these stories broadly and providing opportunities to act, National Geographic hopes to mobilize a large group of concerned citizens to spread the word and actively support and follow the work of the CNVLD.

An integral part of GAA is encouraging donations through the Global Giving network, of wich the CNVLD has been a priority project since 2009.

Click on the link below to visit the CNVLD Global Action Atlas page

Links:

CNVLD Nat Geo Global Action Atlas webpage

CNVLD features on Transworld Sport

CNVLD — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:22:01 GMT

Transworld Sport, the gloabl leaders in sports magazine programming, recently broadcast a 10 minute story on the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix following their visit to Cambodia in 2009. Featuring London 2012 paralympic hopeful and Cambodian National Male Champion Van Vun and the Battambang All-Womens Racng Team, the Transworld Sport programme displays the remarkable ability of sport to effectpositive social change.

Click on the link below to visit the CNVLD YouTube Channel and watch the Transworld Sport programme!

Links:

CNVLD YouTube Channel

CNVLD Launches new website: www.tobedeter-mined.org

CNVLD — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 03:08:51 GMT

Dear colleagues and friends of the CNVLD The CNVLD, one of Cambodia’s most unique NGO’s with a hard-line policy of international standard financial transparency along with ensuring that 80 % of total income is allocated as direct support to Cambodian athletes with a disability and the landmine survivors of Cambodia, is very proud to announce the launch of a new website showcasing the internationally recognized sports and development programs of the CNVLD. www.tobedeter-mined.org This website is devoted to the upcoming international tour of the CNVLD Exhibition “ To Be Deter-Mined” and showcases the work and achievements of the CNVLD’ sport and development programs through a series of photo essays from some of the world's best photographers including Luke Duggleby, Tim Page and John Vink from Magnum along with images of sculptures from the Exhibition which are manufactured from destroyed weapons Please enjoy www.tobedeter-mined.org The CNVLD: the only Cambodian NGO to receive a UN Best Practices Award – celebrating our 10th year in 2010

Attachments:

CNVLD Exhibition AD (PDF)

2010 ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix Hits the Roads

CNVLD — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:22:02 GMT

2010 ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix Hits the Roads

The 28 athletes competing in the 2010 ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix hit the roads this week as training began in earnest at the 5 racing clubs based around the country. Now enjoying its 4th consecutive year of exclusive sponsorship by ANZ Royal Bank, the 2010 ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix is already shaping up to be the most competitive ever.

Phnom Penh Racing Team: 7 Athletes

Based: CNVLD HQ

Newly appointed Coach, Reigning National Male Champion and Paralympic candidate Van Vun has stepped up the pace of the Phnom Penh team by bringing in 3 new young athletes to join the well-established crew of Sin Sopha, Souen Vanna, Mok Samkhan.

Battambang Women’s Racing Team: 5 athletes

Based: ICRC Battambang

Coach Sieng Sokchan aims to continue her teams’ domination of the Women category in 2010 after Krouen Vannon blasted to consecutive victories in 2009 with Tor Chanta close behind. Former Champion Yob Nom who took maternity leave in 2009 hopes to make a comeback later in 2010.

Kompong Speu Racing Team: 6 athletes

Based: ICRC Kompong Speu

Coach Ek Leng will be missing his star female athlete and 2008 Champion Loet Ngait for the early part of 2010 as she takes maternity leave. The CNVLD wishes her the best of health for her new-born!

Kien Khleang Racing Team: 5 athletes

Based: Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre

Coach Pov Sophal, increasingly acknowledged as the most successful coach in Cambodian wheelchair racing history, will be pushing his top athletes Eng Laihourn and Yim Sophal even harder this year to challenge his former protégés Van Vun and Soeun Vanna who have dominated the podium positions since 2008. With a crack 5-man team and a strict training regime expect the KK Racing Team to feature in the top times in 2010.

Kompong Chnnang: 5 athletes

Coach Cheom Sophanna, once the youngest coach in CNVLD history, is now regarded as a seasoned veteran and continues to impress with consistent finishes. Sophanna is determined to break the stranglehold of the Phnom Penh based male athletes to become the first provincial male podium finisher during the 2010 season. 2007 Female Champion Um Sophat made her return after maternity leave in 2008 in the last race of the year in 2009 and is expected to mount a spirited challenge in 2010 against the domination of the Battambang team in the women’s category.

With two months hard training ahead before the 1st Round competition in Phnom Penh, 2010 will also see the continuation and expansion of the CNVLD Volunteer programme with the ANZ Royal Wheelie Grand Prix being managed and staffed entirely by Cambodians in line with the CNVLD’s objective of complete localisation by 2015.

ANZ Royal Bank staff continue to stand up as leaders in local corporate social responsibility by volunteering in great numbers to ensure the event is remains at the cutting edge of Cambodian sports event management.

2009 Cambodian Volleyball World Cup Images

CNVLD — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 03:24:08 GMT

World Cup Photo essay from Luke Duggleby

Please refer to:

http://www.standupcambodia.net/index.php/world-cup/luke-duggleby-photo-essay

From London to Geelong

Liz Gooch — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:44:56 GMT

From Cambodia to Geelong, with London 2012 in sightLIZ GOOCH January 5, 2010

The Age Newspaper - Australia - Jan 5 issue

Van Vun trains for the 2012 Paralympics. Leigh Henningham Picture Editor The Age 03 9601 2682 www.theage.com.au/photography 2 More pics of Van Vun, Liz van vun batch 4. cheers Rahman 2Mobile +60 16 2462 977 lizgooch@gmail.com SPECIAL

FOR much of his young life, Van Vun's view of the world has been obscured by people's kneecaps.

A bout of polio when he was 18 months old left him unable to use his legs, so he relied on his arms to heave himself across the fields where his parents grew rice and vegetables near the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh.

Now 23, Van Vun's carved biceps are propelling him far beyond his family's fields, and he has a clear vision of the future that awaits him.

Ranked No. 1 in Cambodia across all distances in wheelchair racing and with his sights set on the London 2012 Paralympic Games, Van Vun will arrive in Geelong on Friday for an eight-day training camp organised by Parallel Sports, a volunteer group affiliated with Athletics Victoria.

Van Vun , who is making his first trip overseas, will return home with a new wheelchair donated by Parallel Sports.

''I hope I can learn a lot in Australia and show that Cambodian athletes can compete with international athletes with pride,'' he said.

Van Vun, who only began attending school when he got his first wheelchair at the age of 15, is an example of how sport is helping change lives in a country that has one of the world's highest concentrations of disabled people.

In 2006, when he was studying electrical repairs at a rehabilitation centre in Phnom Penh, Van Vun heard about the wheelchair racing program organised by the Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled) and signed up immediately.

Before he started competing, Van Vun said, no one wanted to talk to him. ''People looked down on me,'' he said.

Now a national hero, police stop traffic for him when he is training on the streets of Phnom Penh. He says he feels as though people treat him like a ''normal person''.

Chris Minko, an Australian from Myrtleford, is secretary-general of the Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled), and was recently honoured for his services to Cambodians with disabilities with an award from the country's Prime Minister, Hun Sen.

He said Van Vun was an example of how sport could help Cambodia's most marginalised citizens regain their self-esteem and physical wellbeing to become active members of the community.

Kaye Colman, vice-president of Parallel Sports, said Van Vun would train alongside some of Victoria's best wheelchair athletes and several Japanese athletes at the camp, taking part in three training sessions a day - on the track, in the gym and the pool.

She said the group decided to give Van Vun a new wheelchair to help him in his bid to qualify for the London Paralympics.

http://www.theage.com.au/national/from-cambodia-to-geelong-with-london-2012-in-sight-20100104-lq5y.html

CNVLD World Cup Volunteers – The Face of the New Cambodia

CNVLD — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 09:15:56 GMT

CNVLD World Cup Volunteers – The Face of the New Cambodia

The success of the Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup must be credited in no small degree to the outstanding dedication of the 200+ young Cambodian volunteers from Cellcard and Digital Divide Data who staffed the event.

Volunteerism is still in its infancy in local corporate and social culture and the young staff from Cellcard and DDD are pioneering the new face of Cambodia by Standing Up in support of showcasing Cambodia to the athletes with a disability of the world

All were exceptionally proud to be a part of the event and many became famous overnight with their daily appearances on live-to-air CTN broadcasts as court moppers, ball monitors, assistant scorers, commentators, water monitors and event assistants. Some had had experience with the Cellcard Cambodian National Volleyball League but most had never helped with any public event before and the Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup was the largest international sports event hosted in Phnom Penh in the last 40 years. Often working long hours without breaks either before or after their shifts, not once did any of the volunteers complain. Their enthusiasm, willingness to learn, professionalism and positive attitude under great pressure throughout the tournament brought them the respect, praise and congratulations from the international teams, WOVD and local organising committee alike.

Special mention and gratitude must go to the respective Volunteer Coordinators who did a fantastic job of organising their staff in cooperation with the CNVLD. Mr Socheat and Mr Pheakadey from DDD and Mr Kuch Sophal from Cellcard demonstrated beyond doubt that a new generation of young professionals are actively contributing to Cambodia becoming recognised as the ASEAN Centre for Disability Sport and its ability to host international standard events. They are the new face of Cambodia.

The CNVLD also thanks, Mr Thearen, Mr Oro and Mr Danith who staffed the Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup Hotel Cambodiana for the duration of the event. Thanks to their work, information, transportation, packed lunches and special requirements were all handled with consummate professionalism.

Cellcard and DDD also deserve equal recognition for allowing large proportions of their workforce the time off to volunteer. Many staff worked double shifts and targets were shifted to account for the impact of the event and the CNVLD salutes their enthusiasm and groundbreaking corporate social responsibility in Standing Up in support of the Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup.

The CNVLD and the Volunteers of Cellcard and DDD: Standing Up Together to Showcase Cambodia’s Ability to Host International Standard Sports Events.

www.standupcambodia.net

Images - Cambodian Volleyball World Cup 2009

CNVLD — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:42:05 GMT

Cambodian Volleyball World Cup 2009 A

View the WorldCup essay by internationally renowned Photographer Luke Duggleby on:

http://www.standupcambodia.net/index.php/world-cup/luke-duggleby-photo-essay

Cambodian Volleyball World Cup 2009 B

Cambodian Volleyball World Cup 2009 C

Germany Vote Cambodian World Cup - the best ever !

CNVLD — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:30:27 GMT

Asia Life - the best World Cup ever !

Germany Vote Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup Best Ever World Champions Germany unanimously voted the Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup the best tournament they'd ever attended at a team meeting prior to their departure on Monday.

Germany Coach Athanasious Papageorgiou and the team bade farewell to the local organising committee Monday morning and informed them of their vote taken the night before. The professionalism of the CNVLD together with the nationwide passion for the event, the electric atmosphere in the packed Olympic Stadium and the welcome from the Cambodian people all influenced the decision of the most experienced team in the world. Stars Oliver Gutfleisch and Robert Kampcyck remained in awe of the local support and highlighted the Germany Cambodia match as the most memorable of their lives. Never had the multiple world champions ever played before so many fans or witnessed such passion in support of athletes with a disability.

Coach 'Papa' felt that Cambodia had won regardless of the national team's unexpected forth place and had placed itself firmly on the map as a remarkable international venue. The bonds of friendship between the two teams goes back more than a decade and now after their second win on Cambodian soil, Germany are certain they will return and continue to stand up for standing volleyball with Cambodia.

Half the German team remained in Cambodia for an extended holiday on the coast, a direct socio-economic benefit to Cambodia as a result of the hosting an international sports event. The CNVLD congratulatesGermany once again for their victory as Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup Champions and wishes them safe journey home.

Cambodia Cellcard 2009 WOVD Volleyball World Cup:

Voted by World Champions Germany as the Best Tournament Ever

CSR Focus + The CNVLD - Lecture by CNVLD Chair Ms Mmaskepe Sejoe

CNVLD — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 07:23:52 GMT

CNVLD Chairperson Mmaskepe Sejoe gave a presentation on CSR, focusing on the CNVLD and ANZ Royal Bank,at the Australian African Business Council Investment Conference in Australia on 8th September 2009.

CNVLD Chairperson Mmaskepe Sejoe’s AAB Conference presentation is reproduced in full below.

Promotion of Human Rights through Good Corporate Citizenship Introduction

Human rights are not a new phenomenon in business, because they have a significant impact on accountability for human development. My interest is not to debate the performance of the sector, but to examine the potential value add in the protection and promotion of human rights. I am specifically interested in how business can promote:- • Human Rights , • Leadership in meeting human rights expectations and • Examples of where Good Corporate Leadership has been demonstrated

Business is experienced in ethical standards, because of the expected “trust” across all operations, particularly where there are a range of groups involved (shareholders, private and public interests etc). There is an expectation that with an evolving society, the expectations will change, so shall the standards to meet the changes.

In post-WW II human rights occupied a prominent space in public debates, but for some reason the focus was never on business or business practices until much later in the 20th century. Amazingly enough popular culture (in the form of Hollywood depictions of “white collar crime”, – Erin Brockovich and District 9), started to insinuate that there may be a shifting definition of criminal or unsavoury business practices. We started to see that business could have equally detrimental impact on societies like murderous thuggery that we have always associated with criminality. This seems to become more prominent in literature with a greater exposure to role of business and finance in positive/negative business accountability. This is where business leaders such as yourselves can act or through omission contribute to the violation of inherent rights and dignity of people often leading to “gross” violations of human rights.

You are best placed to articulate the complexities of the environment and the complex problem issues that may often lead to such human rights violations. The realization that members of the business sector can find themselves powerless in a system that deliberately inflicts sustained and untold suffering based on attitudes of “we are not moral police – we are concerned with business”. We have to take into account that the suffering generated by gross human rights violations is not limited to those whose rights we breach; it takes a little bit of our own humanity away. There are those who would argue that more often than not the “blind business leader” becomes a prisoner of his/her own blindness; he/she is never free from the business of his/her silence. Over the past year, we have seen the change in attitude across the world on “Corporate Citizenship” and in fact over the past ten years we have seen the shift in acceptance that business/money is not value free. For example The Swiss Banks are learning that they could not possibly justify their see no evil hear no evil and protect investments at all cost. The world is happy to revise history and accuse the Swiss of having knowingly colluded with the Nazis in appropriating Jewish asserts, so in other words they were party to gross violations of human rights.

It is important to recognize that business decisions that translate as acts of omission can and do contribute to the violation of inherent rights and often leading to “gross” violations of human rights.

Could it be the conceptualizations of business and human suffering? I will take a lot of liberty here in assuming that often the lack of recognition of business leaders as human rights advocates/protectors and promoters maybe due to the limited interpretation of the principles of business accountability. This maybe due to interpreting values in a limited sense based on “PROFIT/MARKET FORCES” conceptualization “BUSINESS” rather than a broad human development concern. There are codes of conduct that regulate all matters relating to business processes; of course, in years gone by they have not taken the bigger picture of overall human development into account. By focusing on “profit” or dare I say “RISK- TAKING/COW BOY” behaviour exclusively, there has been no room for consideration of the people involved. As such, this often impedes on the relationship between business and protection of human rights. Of course, there is a lot more expectation to look beyond profit to the consequences of violations of human rights.

It is critical that conceptualisations of business management/finance and human suffering are driven by human rights concerns. To avoid this would mean being drawn into roles of a highly politicised environment, and thus become willing and unwilling participants in human rights violations, which serve the partisan interests of the state and other actors. My limited experience with business practices tells me that the business professionals I have met are equipped to respond to suffering within a human rights context, whether this is recognised widely is highly debatable.

I’m sure each one of you could tell a story of the blurred lines, where you have known that the “company-line” could have detrimental impact on the lives of the people within and wider than the organisation. It is not for me to question or interpret professional standards or ethics, but I would assume that community expectations are drivers and may not recognise the difference between active participation in human rights violations and “standing by.”

There is a growing view that standing by in the face of human rights violations constitutes “complicity”, I chose not to render my opinion on this, as I do not understand the challenges that you face everyday in your work. But if business/finance practice does impact on the wellbeing of people, then doing nothing can be more challenging to explain to society, despite the fact that the notion of finance/business as part of the human rights discourse is relatively a recent development.

For those who are have maintained interest in human rights over the years, you will know that the Anti-Corruption initiatives have brought human rights into focus in business. On October 31st 2003, the UN General Assembly adopted the UN Convention Against Corruption, which came into force on December 14th 2005. It is worth noting that Switzerland is not a signatory.

This is just one instrument that clearly brings business practice into the realm of human rights. However, this instrument goes beyond the common expectation that business needs only consider labour and environmental provisions to be compliant of human rights expectations.

The fact that to practice as a business/corporation, there are regulatory and legislative parameters that articulate expectations, and practice standards, it is implicit that any human rights provisions would be incorporated into such standards. Of course the nature of multi-nationals makes “national values” difficult to define. While human rights provisions or state commitment to human rights is usually measured by;  lawful basis to uphold and respect rights  availability of mechanisms for redress made available by government should there be interference with the enjoyment of the rights  Positive obligations indicated by economic resources made available by government.

Human rights expectations for multi-nationals are much more fluid and present incredible challenges for human rights compliance. To address this, the UN has developed a set of principles to support business practices internationally. These are across four critical areas: 1 Human Rights a) Principle 1: Businesses should support and respect the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights; and b) Principle 2: make sure that they are not complicit in human rights abuses. 2 Labour a) Principle 3: Businesses should uphold the freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; b) Principle 4: the elimination of all forms of forced and compulsory labour; c) Principle 5: the effective abolition of child labour; and d) Principle 6: the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation. 3 Environment a) Principle 7: Businesses should support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges; b) Principle 8: undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility; and c) Principle 9: Encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies. 4 Anti Corruption a) Principle 10: Businesses should work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery.

The critical issue here is that the intent of these principles revisits values that may have been forgotten in our “market driven” environment. For the purpose of today, I want to draw your attention to how ANZ and DEBSWANA have interpreted the UN human rights principles and showed that corporate citizenship is achievable.

To explore this I have chosen two case studies, both leaders in their respective field, mining and banking: 1. DEBSWANA – DeBeers & Botswana Government, the relationship which was described by Ex-President Mogae while he was the vise President of Botswana as “The partnership between De Beers and Botswana has been likened to a marriage. I sometimes wonder whether a better analogy might not be that of Siamese twins.” 2. ANZ – Which is a banking leader in both Australia and South East Asia, has

Southeast Asia Globe Eagles and Global Giving Scorpions to Face Off in CNVLD 2009 Grand Final

CNVLD — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:21:41 GMT

The Siem Reap Globe Eagles will face the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League Grand Finals on 16 October.

After sensationally trouncing every team in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League, Siem Reap Globe Eagles staked their nest at the top of the table with an amazing 9-0 match record while only losing 3 sets on their storming flight to the finals. Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions clinched second place having lost only two matches to Siem Reap and third place team Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys. The Scorpions, 2008’s 3rd place team, narrowly clinched their finals berth by just one set lost over the Koupreys who had also won 7 of their 9 games and take 3rd. The Scorpions came close to losing their slimmest of margins after dropping a set in a tight match against 6th place Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons but held on to ensure their finals spot with a comprehensive 3-0 thrashing of 8th place Prey Veng Kingmaker Cobras. The 3rd-4th place play-off will see 2008 National Volleyball League Champions Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys square up to 6-times National League Champions Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons who managed to halt their abrupt slide down the rankings on the last day of competition to steal 4th by defeating newcomers Kompong Cham Bartu Bulls and narrowly overcoming Kratie Nike Changemakers Dolphins.

The 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League Grand Finals will see the top four teams in the country play for the coveted positions of Champions and 2nd-3rd places along with the largest purse in Cambodian sports. The National League Champions will take home $3000 with 2nd pocketing $2000 and 3rd sharing $1000. While the dollars provide adequate incentive, there is little doubt that provincial pride is what’s truly at stake.

The 4th Round Competition held at the Olympic Stadium on 25-26 September once again witnessed some of the most competitive volleyball in the history of the league with 5th place Battambang MOSVY Tigers only missing out on a play-off spot by 2 lost sets to Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons. Dragons Coach Kim Horn is now planning a radical overhaul of his team through an injection of new young athletes into his aging squad after their worst performance in years. With only Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons to play at the weekend, both Takeo and Battambang mathematically had a chance for a play-off spot, but Battambang’s team spirit prevailed over a lethargic Falcons team who had earlier pushed the Scorpions to the limit with the north-west team swiping an easy 3-0 victory leaving Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons to take a respectable 6th.

At the tail end of the table, Kratie Nike Changemakers Dolphins battled through a 5-set marathon against Phnom Penh to narrowly lose out 2-3 before being given a swift lesson in net work by the domineering Eagles to lose 0-3. However, victory over Kompong Cham, Prey Veng and Pailin over the course of the season leaves Kratie in a respectable 7th place. Close behind in 8th are newcomers and the surprise of the year, Kompong Cham Bartu Bulls who genuinely impressed everyone with their team spirit, morale and love of the game. Led by National Team spiker Sang Veasna, the Bulls have quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with and even took a set off Phnom Penh on the final day of the season. 2010 will see former National Team player Pin Ty take the coaching reins in Kompong Cham with Sang Veasna tasked with establishing a crack new team in Kandal province.

Prey Veng Kingmaker Cobras and Pailin Frechen Lions prop up the bottom of the ladder with a 1-8 and 0-9 record respectively. Prey Veng could consider themselves unlucky after a number of very close matches and the Cobras remain one of the most consistent and tight knit teams in the league, hindered only by a distinct lack of height at the net with the departure of 6-footer Met Mean to Kratie. It’s back to the drawing board for Pailin though who had their most disastrous season since joining the National League in 2006. Coach Khem Pheng Tong had no excuses for his underachieving side which was once feared nationwide for their aggressive style of play. Expect a rejuvenated team to enter the court in 2010!

With the 2009 Cellcard WOVD Cambodia World Cup just around the corner in December, selection for the Cambodian National Team is dominating team talks and National Coach Christian Zepp has the potential to pick a dream team with a real chance of clinching the World #1 position.

The CNVLD wishes to thank Cellcard and all the team sponsors in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League as well as R.O Water and the volunteer team from DDD and ANZ Royal Bank for helping to make this year’s national league the best ever.

Southeast Asia Globe Eagles and Global Giving Scorpions to Face Off in CNVLD 2009 Grand Final

CNVLD — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:21:18 GMT

The Siem Reap Globe Eagles will face the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League Grand Finals on 16 October.

Global Giving Scorpions Sting HMAS Darwin Team

CNVLD — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:30:34 GMT

The Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions took home the coveted CNVLD-ADF Volleyball Trophy yesterday after stinging a team from HMAS Darwin in the Annual CNVLD – ADF Volleyball Match.

The CNVLD was honoured again to be invited to the Royal Cambodian Navy – Australian Defence Forces Sports Afternoon at Ream Naval Base on 22nd September continuing a tradition that began in 2005 with the first ever match against the crew from the HMAS Adelaide. For the last two matches, the CNVLD has been represented by the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions.

The Royal Cambodian Navy – Australian Defence Sports afternoon is an event in the greatest tradition of affirming bonds of friendship and solidarity between nations through the unique power of sport. Attended by the Admiral of the Royal Cambodian Navy and his senior officers, the Commander of the HMAS Darwin, the Australian Ambassador to Cambodia and the Australian Military Attaches to Cambodia Office, the event is nonetheless an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the sea air.

he HMAS Darwin team arrived on the court looking the business resplendent in their official team uniforms with at least three players over 6 feet and a healthy row of substitutes. Never a team to buckle to nerves or appearance, the Scorpions quickly set about dissecting the HMAS Darwin crew with a rapid succession of bullet velocity spikes.

Before HMAS Darwin could blink the first match was crisply concluded 25-5. The Scorpions refused to let up on the esteemed visitors however and swiped the second match 25-09. After a quick refreshment break and a healthy rotation of substitutes, the Aussies gelled and threatened to take the initiative as the early stages of the third match stayed neck and neck. But the Scorpions aren’t the currently ranked #2 team in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League for nothing and Sarath’s domination at the net ably assisted by veteran Phat Yoy saw the Cambodians cruise through to victory 25-15.

The Cambodian Navy also fielded a volleyball team for the first time this year and all were eager to test their skills against the mighty Scorpions. After their comprehensive defeat at the hands of Scorpions the HMAS Darwin team quickly recruited Pin Sarath, Phat Yoy and Im Phiream to join their team for their match against the Cambodian Navy. The Navy team were determined to put up a spirited fight against the ‘chunpikar’ outsiders and displayed great tenacity though to little avail as the joint CNVLD-ADF team won the match 25-23 to the huge delight of team and supporters alike.

Later in the afternoon, the HMAS Darwin football team ground out a 2-1 victory over the Cambodian Navy team to take home the Cambodian – ADF Football trophy for the first time in the 5 year history of the event.

Scorpions Coach Pin Sarath was presented the unique Armed Art trophy manufactured from destroyed weapons by Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Margaret Adamson and Australian Defence Attache Alan Davies and was also presented an honorary HMAS Darwin sports kit by the crew.

The event garnered considerable local media coverage with TV crews from CTN, TV5, Bayon TV and TVK all in attendance. The CNVLD was also accompanied by a Finnish documentary film crew from Finland who are making a 30 minute film on the CNVLD focusing on the lives and athletic endeavours of the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions.

The CNVLD wishes to express its gratitude to the Australian Defence Forces and the Commander and Crew of HMAS Darwin, the Royal Cambodian Navy and Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Margaret Adamson for their continued support and friendship to the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

So until next year………………………

CNVLD Sports Trophies manufactured from Destroyed weapons on YouTube

CNVLD — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 02:10:57 GMT

Please go onto the Youtube connection below to see the latest CTN TV News coverage of Australian Business Volunteer (ABV) George’s Frimls tenure producing CNVLD Sports Trophies from Destroyed Weapons

http://www.youtube.com/user/CNVLD

CNVLD features in Time Out Singapore

CNVLD — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 07:30:09 GMT

The CNVLD features in the latest edition of Time Out Singapore.

View the article via the following link:

http://www.timeoutsingapore.com/travel/feature/cambodias-national-disabled-volleyball-team-is-on-the-brink-of-a-famous-victory

K.Speu Global Giving Scorpions to play HMAS Darwin team

CNVLD — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:30:40 GMT

The Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions volleyball team will travel to Ream Naval Base on 22 September to play against a team from HMAS Darwin.

As part of the ongoing ‘Stand Up Challenge’ and in recognition of the historic bonds of solidarity and friendship between the Kingdom of Cambodia, Australia and the CNVLD, the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions volleyball team will play against the HMAS Darwin volleyball team as part of the Cambodian Navy / Australian Department of Defence Sports Afternoon.

The HMAS Darwin is a long-range Adelaide Class escort frigate that undertakes roles including area air defence, anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction. The ship is capable of countering simultaneous threats from the air, surface and sub-surface.

Since 2005, the CNVLD has played matches against teams from HMAS Adelaide (2005, 2007), HMAS Toowoomba (2006) and HMAS Bathhurst (2008) with the Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys and Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions winning on all four occasions. During their visits to Cambodia, the Australian Defence Forces also engage in local community work, such as helping to build schools and latrines.

The Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions are one of the most exciting, dynamic teams in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League. The Scorpions are coached by Pin Sarath, one of the outstanding members of the Cambodian National Team who took Bronze at the historic 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup and will also play a key role in the Cambodian Team’s attempt to claim World #1 at the 2009 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup scheudled for December.

The Scorpions currently stand 2nd in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League standings and are striving hard for a place in the 2009 Grand Finals at the Olympic Syadium Phnom Penh on 16th October 2009.

Since 2007, the CNVLD Armed Art programme has provided a unique perennial trophy designed by Australian engineer and ABV Val Sutherland and manufactured from destroyed weapons to the winners of the Annual Australian Defence Forces - CNVLD Volleyball Match. Yet having been torpedoed by the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia on the last four occasions, the Armed Art trophy has yet to take pride of place in the Australian Embassy Phnom Penh.

The CNVLD wishes to thank the Australian Government Department of Defence and the servicemen and women of HMAS Darwin for their continued support for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia and the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions look forward once again to battle on the court of Ream!

The CNVLD and Australian Defence Forces:

Standing Up Together in Support of the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia

The CNVLD Launches Youtube Channel

CNVLD — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 06:10:19 GMT

Watch films from one of the oldest and most successful sports and development projects in the world: The CNVLD. Winner of a UN Best Practices Sports and Development in 2006, the CNVLD provides sporting and socio economic opportunity to landmine survivors and persons with a disability of Cambodia. Major programmes include the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League, the Cambodian National Standing Volleyball League, the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix, Armed Art and national and international exhibition design. Find out more about the CNVLD on: www.standupcambodia.net

http://www.youtube.com/user/CNVLD

CNVLD Sisters are doing it for themselves on YouTube

CNVLD — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 06:54:48 GMT

Watch Cambodian CNVLD sisters doing it for themselves on Youtube !

A film by Nacky Hagemeyer

Enjoy !

Links:

Watch our film

ISPP Landmine-Disability Study Group Starts 6th Year

CNVLD — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:55:44 GMT

Visiting the CNVLD 1

Now in its sixth successful year, the ISPP Landmine and Disability Study Group kicked off last week at the start of the new academic year when 10 students visited the CNVLD office for an introductory presentation.

Established by inspirational ISPP teacher Mr Brian Webster in 2003, the Landmine and Disability Study Group is the most important component of the CNVLD Education Programme and has seen remarkable progress in integrating disability issues into the school curriculum.

As proud co-sponsors of the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons volleyball team, ISPP students organise a whole host of activities through the year to promote awareness of disability issues. The Annual ISPP Fun Run raises $5000 every year towards the Falcons team sponsorship which allows the Falcons to be one of the most competitive teams in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League. The Annual ISPP CNVLD Volleyball Tournament has brought new levels of integration between youth athletes and the athletes with a disability of Cambodia and the Falcons also help the ISPP team prepare for their regional international schools annual MRISSA tournaments. In September, fellow Falcons co-sponsors Templestowe College Melbourne ‘Cambodia Community Challenge’ students will return for the 4th consecutive year to play in mixed team matches with the Falcons and ISPP students.

In recognition of ISPP’s efforts, the school was awarded the CNVLD Best Educational Institute for Disability Issues Annual Disability Award in 2008.

Since 2005, ISPP Landmine and Disability Group students have also worked on the renovations and upkeep of the grounds at the Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre, created an award-winning Dutch language landmine website, designed an international fund-raising campaign, produced a short video documentary and, most importantly of all, contributed enormously to raising awareness, support and respect for the athletes with a disability of Cambodia.

During the visit to the CNVLD office last week, after an introduction by CNVLD Secretary General Chris Minko, the Landmine and Disabilty Study Group with teachers Mr Brian Webster and Ms Marion Harris, found out from CNVLD Volleyball Manager Mr Pich Piseth, CNVLD Admin Manager Ms. Keth Theary and CNVLD Special Projects Officer Neil Wilford about the huge progress the CNVLD has enjoyed since the end of the 2009 school year, including the all new 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League, the nomination of National Wheelchair Racing Champion Van Vun to qualify for the London 2012 Games and the progress of the Armed Art programme under Melbourne Royal Institute of Technology lecturer and producer of the World Cup medals Mr George Friml.

The CNVLD is exceptionally proud of its cooperation with ISPP and looks forward to another successful year working in cooperation with the dedicated students and staff, together with the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

CNVLD and ISPP: Standing Up to Encourage Awareness of Disability Issues and Volunteerism Among Students in Cambodia

Visiting the CNVLD 2

DDD Donate Computer for Employment Training

CNVLD — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 03:05:01 GMT

Digital Divide Data (DDD) have donated a computer to the CNVLD to allow Miss Tol Kolab to provide employment skills training to National Wheelchair Racing Champion and London 2012 nominee Van Vun.

DDD and the CNVLD are now in their second year of successful partnership: DDD staff work as volunteers at the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League and Miss Tol Kolab, a DDD staff member works part-time as a Financial Management Trainee through an internship funded and technically supported by ANZ Royal Bank. DDD were also winners of the inaugural CNVLD Best Employer of Persons with a Disability Annual Disability Award in 2008.

With just three years to go prior to the London 2012 Games, Van Vun, the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix National Male Champion, is hard in training to become the first ever Cambodian to qualify for the Paralympics. An integral part of this process is allowing 23 year old Vun the opportunity to seek long-term training and employment in Phnom Penh in parallel with his athletic endeavours.

In an innovative expansion of their cooperation, DDD have donated a computer to the CNVLD to allow Tol Kolab to train Van Vun in basic computer skills. Similar to many persons with a disability in Cambodia, Vun did not finish high school because of the distance from his family’s home and his lack of mobility. Despite currently not meeting the entry standards to join a DDD Training Programme, DDD General Manager Kunthy Kann immediately recognised Vun’s potential and applying for the exam. If the training is successful, Vun would then have the opportunity to become employed with DDD.

DDD’s donation reflects the unique power of sport to provide individuals with a disability the dedication, commitment, loyalty, self-confidence and desire to be active, respected members of their communities, all of which are essential skills for the modern workplace.

The CNVLD wishes to thank DDD for their outstanding generosity and support for the athletes with a disability of Cambodia.

DDD and CNVLD: Standing Up Together to Provide Opportunities for the Persons with a Disability of Cambodia.

Coach Zepp swims 66 K in support of Pailin Lions team

CNVLD — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:01:23 GMT

Cambodian National Volleyball Team Coach Christian Zepp has once again cemented his position as a true sporting hero and an inspiration to all by swimming an outstanding 66km in support of the Pailin Frechen Lions – the equivalent of swimming the English Channel twice!

The CNVLD were the first to catch up with Coach Zepp, who won the hearts of the nation after guiding the Cambodian National Team to World # 3 at the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Volleyball World Cup, straight after his mammoth effort

“It’s been a tough weekend, but it was great. I don’t think I have ever done anything similar before… Even the Ironman in 2003 was a walk in the park compared to this competition! After all, I did 66km.

I had three goals – Swimming further than the 40.7km I did last year, doing more than 50km - which would have been good - and doing more than 60km - which would have been almost perfect! But after I realized that everything was going pretty “smoothly”, I decided on the spot to do 66km which is swimming the equivalent of the English Channel twice! So by the end, I swam from Calais (France) to Dover (Great Britain) - and back again!

Yesterday I was kind of devastated physically, but today I’m feeling a lot better. I knew what I was doing this for and it was worth it. Through the swim, I raised some 800 EUR. Additionally, the Mayor of Frechen has agreed to provide an increased prize again in support of the sponsorship for the Pailin Frechen Lions.

I also won a voucher for 600Eur from a local electronics store - the same store who donated the voucher last year. Prior to the swim we talked about how to deal with the situation if I won the swim again, because they knew that I would want to donate the money again. The owner said that given the current economic climate, he could not afford to give 600Eur in cash because the voucher is worth 600EUR for goods. However, we decided that he would donate 300 EUR in cash, and donate an additional 300EUR voucher to the youngest participant in the competition. This was a perfect compromise as I am also the Youth Director in my local sports association and am pleased to honour the effort of local young athletes and encourage their participation in such an sporting event.

In addition, the organizers of the event donated a specific amount for every km swum overall by all participants which they donated to a local charity. So from this athletic achievement by many people, many less fortunate than us will benefit greatly.

So from my swim, I raised 1100EUR for the Pailin Frechen Lions not including what the Mayor of Frechen will donate on top. I know how much difference this makes to the CNVLD and their work in providing sporting opportunities for the athletes with a disability of Cambodia.

One thing I have learned this weekend: If you think you can’t go on - you can even push a little more!”

Christian Zepp – Athlete, Inspiration, Hero!

The Power of Volunteerism:DDD, ANZ Royal Stand Up

CNVLD — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 01:44:51 GMT

In a pioneering display of individual and corporate social responsibility, 60 staff from Digital Divide Data and ANZ Royal Bank have Stood Up as volunteers for the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League. Following the introduction of the CNVLD Volunteer Programme in 2008, when 50 DDD staff worked as volunteers for the National Volleyball League, there has been a groundswell of volunteers standing up in support for CNVLD sports programmes including the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix. As part of the CNVLD’s dedicated drive to ensure the effective, sustainable development of a national disability sports infrastructure managed by Cambodians for Cambodian athletes with a disability, the push to encourage volunteerism amongst young Cambodians has yielded remarkable results. Since 2008, Digital Divide Data (DDD), Winners of the CNVLD 2008 Best Employer for Persons with a Disability Award and ANZ Royal Bank, Winners of the CNVLD 2008 Best Corporate Supporter Disability Issues Award, have encouraged their staff to participate in essential volunteer staff positions. DDD staff with a disability in particular are especially proactive and enthusiastic to contribute their time and effort in support of their nations sporting heroes. The 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League is entirely staffed by volunteers manning positions as diverse as staff coordinators, commentators, line judges, score keepers, court cleaners, water monitors, ball boys/girls and trouble shooters. The CNVLD’s Volleyball League Manager, Mr Pich Piseth is also exceptionally proud to work entirely on a voluntary basis. DDD in particular have reaped the professional rewards of encouraging volunteerism. In 2008, Mr Bun Sokha was the security guard for DDD with no experience of volunteerism, sports management or computer work. One of the first to sign up as a volunteer in 2008, Sokha quickly established himself as the Chief Commentator and worked to coordinate the roles of other volunteers. With a new found confidence and sense of responsibility, DDD reciprocated with formal training and Sokha is now a valuable Operator in DDD’s data entry team. In 2009, Sokha is once again at the helm of the microphone for the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League. The management of both companies also benefit from the engagement in volunteer programmes as it assists in the identification of staff whose commitment and dedication stretch beyond what is immediately required, with obvious long term institutional and economic benefits. Since 2008, ANZ Royal Bank staff have also been responsible for ensuring the smooth implementation of the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix as staff coordinators, commentators, official timers, race starters, water monitors and trouble shooters at the Phnom Penh and provincial rounds of annual competition. Across the world, the bedrock of successful national and international sports infrastructures, including the Olympic Games, is the dedication and commitment of volunteer staff and the CNVLD is proud to be harnessing the unique power of sport to encourage young Cambodians to contribute to their nation’s disability sports development. The establishment of a dedicated, professional, experienced volunteer base also ensures that Cambodia is always ready to host international events such as the WOVD Standing Volleyball World Cup. The social and economic benefits for the individual and the nation at large are easy to quantify. It is estimated that approximately one-fifth of Australia’s and Germany’s GDP is generated through the efforts of volunteerism. With a dedicated crew of volunteers, many of them PWDs, behind them, the athletes with a disability of Cambodia have a new-found confidence and enthusiasm and this is reflected in a radically improved standard in their respective sports. Volunteerism is also a key component in encouraging social and individual responsibility in Cambodia, encouraging morality, team work, commitment, compassion and practically realising the Buddhist and universal tenets of selflessly assisting those less fortunate. The CNVLD acknowledges the tireless efforts of the DDD and ANZ Royal Bank volunteers and thanks them for their contribution to the development of a sustainable Cambodian National Disability Sports Infrastructure. The CNVLD Volunteer Programme – Standing Up to Encourage Individual and Corporate Responsibility in Support of the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

Cambodian National Team Volleyball Coach Christian Zepp to Swim 50km in Support of Pailin Frechen Li

CNVLD — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:30:42 GMT

Inspirational National Volleyball Team Coach Christian Zepp, who led Cambodia’s sporting heroes to World #3 in the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup, will swim 50km in 50 hours on 14-16 August to raise sponsorship for the Pailin Frechen Lions 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League team.

Stadt Frechen, Christian Zepp’s hometown in Germany is proud to possess one of the oldest and best maintained swimming pools in the country and in 2008, Christian swam an amazing 40.7km in a competition designed to save the historic sports facility. His cash prize for winning the 2008 event was presented by the Mayor of Stadt Frechen who increased the amount in recognition of Christian donating his award to sponsor the Pailin Frechen Lions volleyball team.

In 2009, Christian hopes to smash his previous record by swimming a mind-boggling 50km in just 50 hours to ensure the Pailin Frechen Lions continue to Stand Up in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League.

Revered by Cambodians for his outstanding contribution to the National Volleyball Team during the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup, Christian has called for all citizens of Frechen to sponsor him for any amount they can afford in his efforts to support the athletes with a disability from Pailin, one of the most landmine affected areas of Cambodia. The CNVLD requests the good citizens of Frechen to Stand Up alongside their heroic son in his outstanding efforts for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia and looks forward to welcoming Herr Zepp back to Phnom Penh in October 2009.

Christian Zepp – A Sporting Hero Standing Up for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia

CNVLD Congratulates H.E Ith Sam Heng on Banning

CNVLD — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:24:53 GMT

CNVLD Congratulates H.E Ith Sam Heng on Banning

Cambodian Miss Landmine Beauty Pageant

Consistent with its publicly stated position over the past two years, the CNVLD congratulates H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation on the banning of the Cambodian Miss Landmine pageant in the interests of promoting the dignity of the PWDs of Cambodia.

MOSVY issued a press release last week stating that “The Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation does not support the Miss Landmine contest…and would like the program’s organiser to halt all activity immediately in order to protect the honour and dignity of the disabled Cambodians especially women.” The ban on the contest came into effect on Sunday 2nd August.

Despite a public outcry by the organisers and claims of strong international support, MOSAVY has refused to change its position and has also prohibited the organisers from utilising provincial MOSVY offices to meet with the contestants in order to provide cash payments claimed to amount to $200 each.

In response to the first proposed Miss Landmine contest in 2008, the CNVLD publicly stated its strong opposition to the pageant and maintains its position in 2009. CNVLD Secretary General Chris Minko recently elaborated the organisation’s long-term position, “Over the last 10 years, the CNVLD has successfully demonstrated through the unique power of sport that PWDs can become effective, respected, active, proud and contributing members of society who can act as inspirational role models, not only for other PWDs but for the population at large. Beauty pageants of all descriptions merely serve to objectify and denigrate the participants for the benefit of a deeply unsettling voyeurism and any attempt to link the Miss Landmine contest with successful campaigning against the global scourge of landmines is an insult to victims, survivors and committed activists alike.”

Minko also emphasised the role of women in the CNVLD’s sports programmes which enjoy sponsorship by one of the world’s largest corporations, “The ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix Battambang Women’s Racing Team, along with the women athletes integrated into racing teams around Cambodia, are a perfect example of how Cambodian women with a disability can successfully effect the transition from being isolated and feeling outcast to becoming embraced and celebrated by their communities and the nation for their dedication, commitment and success through their sporting achievements. The level of sustainable social and economic integration which result from participation by women with a disability in sports programmes is unprecedented as is the impact on the raising of positive awareness on the issues of landmines and disability.”

After more nearly a decade of the National Volleyball League (Disabled) and with the Cambodian National Team currently World #3 after the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Volleyball World Cup, the athletes with a disability of Cambodia now enjoy an elevated status as Cambodia’s sporting heroes, recognised, acknowledged and a source of great pride for the majority of Cambodian citizens.

With the advent of naming rights sponsorship of the National Volleyball League by Cellcard, Cambodia’s leading telecommunications company, along with the appearance by the National Volleyball Team in recent Cellcard TV ads, the CNVLD has pioneered the promotion of disability rights and anti-landmine campaigning with dignity, pride and self-esteem, in keeping with Cambodian cultural norms.

The CNVLD strongly opposes any efforts by individuals or organisations sponsored by foreign governments to impose esoteric social experiments on Cambodian women with a disability, and fully supports and congratulates H.E Ith Sam Heng and the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation to permanently ban the Miss Landmine contest.

The CNVLD and the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia:

Standing Up for the Rights and Dignity of Women PWDs

CNVLD National Volleyball League 2009 - 1st Round report

CNVLD — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:29:31 GMT

The CNVLD National Volleyball League

Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled) Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League – 1st Round Report 6-time Champions Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons scorched 2008 Champions Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys off the court 2-0 in the Opening Ceremony Match of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League at the National Olympic Stadium on July 24.

H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation presided over the Opening Ceremony of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League, where he congratulated the athletes for building pride for the PWDs of Cambodia. Mr Kay Lot, Cellcard Chief Operating Officer, also spoke at the event, in its first year of prestigious sponsorship from Cellcard, reiterating the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Broadcast live on CTN TV, sports fans around the nation who couldn’t make it the stadium tuned in to witness two of the most established teams in Cambodian volleyball fire up their seasons. A sluggish opening set beset with nerves saw star Kouprey athlete Hong Sarin twist an ankle early on leaving a gaping defensive hole. The Dragons fiery response was led by national team athlete Cheam Panh who caught quick attention with his superior fitness allowing young athletes Ni Lida and Thea Vanna to hammer the points home at the net to claim an easy first set scalp.

The Koupreys regrouped and bucked in the second set with 58 year old Koupreys Captain Cha Hok consistently setting up national team athlete Yem Bunthoeun for furious spikes which briefly unnerved the famously solid Dragons. Dragons Coach Kim Horn rallied his team, substituting Chet Sobear in a defensive shore up. He then set high ball after high ball for Ni Lida and Thea Vanna to clinch the second set and at 2-0 the first victory of the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League.

The Dragons, still simmering from their comprehensive defeat at the hooves of the Koupreys at the 2008 Grand Finals, celebrated in a suitable style at overcoming the first hurdle of their season against a dejected Kompong Speu team.

H.E Ith Sam Heng joined the court to greet and congratulate the athletes from Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys and Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons in what has become an honoured tradition over the nine consecutive years of the National Volleyball League.

A full programme of eleven Saturday matches saw all ten teams in action. Over the course of the day, a burning warning was served to the dominant teams by mid-table teams rejuvenated by an influx of younger, fitter athletes training under highly motivated coaches.

Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions Coach and national team athlete Pen Sarath put on a mesmerising display of skill to easily be player of the weekend. His leadership over a tightly organised team coupled with acrobatic defence and unstoppable scoring ability all with a huge grin saw the Scorpions sting their way to 2 straight wins against Kratie Nike Changemakers Dolphins and Pailin Frechen Lions.

However, in a re-run of the 2008 National Volleyball League 3rd Place Play Off, the Scorpions slipped at 1-1 and got caught in the claws of the Siem Reap Globe Magazine Eagles who snatched the closest set of the entire first round to win 2-1.

The Eagles look like one of the hottest prospects for championship honours after their Saturday performances thanks to a truly fearsome team line-up. National team captain Cheam Channdy’s experience, point-scoring ability, competitiveness and above all his team motivation skills, have remained a bed-rock foundation from which awesome new young athlete Prep Atit and the youngest national team athlete Choem Kong wreaked havoc on the opposition. This leaves the Eagles an impressive 3 for 3 and in 2nd place overall after also beating the luckless Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys and Prey Veng Kingmaker Cobras later in the day.

The newest team in the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League, Kompong Cham Bartu Bulls, provided the upset of the weekend with a comprehensive 2-0 thrashing of Prey Veng Kingmaker Cobras. Star national team spiker Sang Veasna, in his first ever coaching role with the newly formed Bulls, displayed immense maturity over a skilled team who were having the most fun of anyone on the stadium. The Bulls’ swift rampage over the Cobras drew huge cheers of support from the other teams leaving Veasna unable to control the grins.

It was a harder lesson for the Bulls though at the claws of the Battambang MOSVY Tigers, one of the mid-table teams threatening the big boys. Tigers Coach Se Pha has built young new athletes into an experienced framework and after beating the Kompong Cham Bartu Bulls 2-0, they went on to sink the Kratie Nike Changemakers Dolphins 2-0 to sit comfortably in fourth.

It was a balanced opening also for the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons, undoubtedly one of the top tips for a high-placed finish having the youngest athletes of any team. Falcons Coach Meas Sabon unveiled new athlete Meav Mouen, whose youth, height, athleticism and ability to control the ball scorched a presence onto the court which is sure to be felt again by oppositions through the season. A comfortable victory over the emerging Kratie Nike Changemakers Dolphins left the Falcons in fifth after they put on an impressive show to narrowly lose out to the Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons.

With 2008 National League Champions Kompong Speu CTN Koupreys effectively out of the championship title running after two consecutive defeats, Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons and Siem Reap Globe Eagles top the table after the first round. There’s no resting on the laurels yet though with impressive performances from Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions, Battambang MOSVY Tigers, ISPP Templestowe Falcons and underdogs Kompong Cham Bartu Bulls all showing they intend to fight to stay in contention for the prestigious title of 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League Champions.

The first round of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League was also the most professional ever hosted thanks to the dedication and assistance of the 30 volunteer staff from Digital Divide Data and ANZ Royal Bank who continued to ensure that the national league meets technical world standards.

The CNVLD sincerely thanks H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation for presiding over the Opening Ceremony of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League and for the long-term support of MOSVY.

The CNVLD wishes to thank Cellcard, and team sponsors ANZ Royal Bank, Kingmaker, CTN, Globe Magazine, ISPP / Templestowe College, Bartu, Frechen, Global Giving and Nike Changmakers for their support for the athletes with a disability of Cambodia.

The CNVLD also thanks R.O Water for their in-kind sponsorship of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League, Dr Elise Reid CNVLD Doctor and Sophie Smith CNVLD Sports Education Advisor for their outstanding contributions.

Round 2 of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League will be played on Saturday 22 – Sunday 23rd August, 2pm-8pm at the National Olympic Stadium. ENTRY IS FREE.

Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League: The Most Professional Sports League in Cambodia

All Photos by: Luke Duggleby 2009

CNVLD

CNVLD on You Tube !

CNVLD — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:25:45 GMT

Cellcard TV Ad Featuring CNVLD Athletes Posted on You Tube

In a breakthrough for the integration of Cambodian disability sport, the new Cellcard TV advertisement featuring the Cambodian National Standing Volleyball team has now been posted on YouTube.

Watch the New Cellcard Ad on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgRSsFwDqMs

Templestowe College Stand Up Again in 2009

CNVLD — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 06:24:32 GMT

the 2009 TCCC group getting warmed up for the trip to Cambodia

Templestowe College Stand Up Again in 2009 The students of Templestowe College Melbourne have Stood Up again to raise their joint sponsorship of the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons volleyball team for the Falcons Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League campaign.

Templestowe College, together with the International School Phnom Penh (ISPP) are at the forefront of the CNVLD Education Programme having jointly sponsored the Falcons and conducted annual study visits to Cambodia since 2005.

With the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons hard in training and the opening of the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League only a week away, the CNVLD spoke with Julie Ramsey, the organiser of the Templestowe College Community Challenge in Cambodia “Walking in Another’s Shoes” programme, about the 2009 fundraising activities and trip to Cambodia.

Julie Ramsey, thanks very much for speaking with the CNVLD.

Can you tell us about the fundraising activities the students have been undertaking this year in support of the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons? • The students will continue to sell chocolates throughout the year as a fundraiser both from within the college and out in the wider community as this helps towards advertising the Templestowe College Community Challenge in Cambodia (TCCCC 09).

• The students set up and assisted in the coordination of the College parent and teacher evening and the College Council made a donation to the 2009 TCCCC. • The students coordinated a Movie Fundraiser selling tickets for “Harry Potter & the Half- Blood Prince” opening night. • The students collected second hand clothing and sold the items at a local market.

How has this translated into an awareness at (and outside) the school of the Falcons team and Disability Sport in Cambodia? As most of the fundraising happens outside the college we take a collection of posters advertising our relationship with CNVLD including photos for our games at ISPP and visits to the National Volleyball League at the Olympic Stadium Phnom Penh. The students attend 6 two-hour tutorials learning about Cambodia, CNVLD, ISPP, Landmines and AusAID.

What were the reactions of the last group of students to their visit to Cambodia and what impact do you think it has had on their outlook / studies / ambitions and those of their peers? The impact of our previous Challenge has had a huge impact as 4 students from the 2008 Challenge are returning to Cambodia as mentors to the other 5 new members of the 2009 Team.

The students always return “fired” up for their education including future studies, relationships with family and place in community and society. Their enthusiasm and respect for life increases tenfold, their desire to make a difference is transferred into their everyday life.

We watched the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons train a few weeks ago and they looked very fit and ready to mount a strong challenge at the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League. What are Templestowe’s hopes for their team’s performances this year?

We’re sure the Falcons will put on their best ever performance in this years national league. Our student team visiting Cambodia is about:

Learning about others from a totally different community and preparing to lend a hand to complete strangers Taking the time to making a difference in others lives LEARN, ACT, & BE Will Templestowe College visit Cambodia again in 2009 and what do you plan to do and hope to achieve ? The 2009 Templestowe College Community Challenge in Cambodia comprises nine Year 11 students and three staff. This is the fifth consecutive year that a group of students has taken up the challenge to work and visit Cambodia.

The intention is to continue our partnership with the International School of Phnom Penh in Cambodia, plus English conversation classes with the Don Bosco Foundation. As well we aim to maintain sponsorship of our team, the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons and their families as part of CNVLD Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled). Templestowe College and ISPP continue to work together to help sponsor this Team in Cambodia.

The 2005 Challenge involved re-building and beautifying the playground for children at the Kien Khleng National Rehabilitation Centre. An Aussie Working Bee was conducted by the 2006 Challenge and resulted in new playground equipment being installed at the Kien Kaleng National Rehabilitation Centre.

The Community Project for 2007 Challenge was to work at the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup in Phnom Penh. It was the first time such a sporting event was held in a developing country like Cambodia.

The Community Project for the 2008 Challenge is to organize and conduct English conversation classes for Training Teachers from Don Bosco Schools and for Community Outreach and Youth Workers for the Don Bosco Youth Training Centre from across Cambodia.

The 2009 Challenge is to continue with our sponsorship of the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons and their families as part of CNVLD Cambodian National Volleyball League (Disabled). Templestowe College and the CNVLD recognise the importance of using sport as the bridge between physical rehabilitation and social integration including a betterment of the individual’s socio economic circumstances through restored selfesteem and the positive consequences thereof. Over 70 % of the athletes participating in the annual program are the survivors of landmine accidents.

We also aim to continue the ongoing relationship with we have with ISPP. We will be continuing to conduct conversation classes for local senior students from the Don Bosco TAFE College. These classes are conducted at the Don Bosco Youth Training Center in Kep, a small fishing village about 200 km south of Phnom Penh.

The Don Bosco Centres primarily offer support for poor young people who have no opportunity to further their education. Through skills training the Centre aims to prepare the young people to join the blue collar work force of Cambodia. Young people are helped to prepare for the life ahead as caring members of their family and as honestcitizens of the country. This is a wonderful opportunity for our Templestowe College students to share their skills and support other young people in a developing country with their future education.

TCCCC offers college students a firsthand experience to live, to learn, and to work in a community very different from their own. This experience will help them develop a unique link with a community and school from a significantly different environment and in turn will help them inspire other students to become motivated to continue the challenge and aspire to be actively involved with the project in future years.

Julie Ramsey, thanks very much for talking with the CNVLD and we look forward to welcoming the TCCCC 09 team to Cambodia in September.

Read the July 2008 interview with Templestowe College Junior School Principal Andrew Minko

The CNVLD wishes to thank Templestowe College for their ongoing outstanding commitment to the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

As a result of their work, the CNVLD is proud to announce the nomination of Templestowe College for the category of Best Best Educational Institution for the CNVLD 2009 Disability Awards. The awards will be presented by H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation at the Cellcard 2009 National Volleyball League Grand Finals on Froday October 16 2009.

2009 TCCC pre trip planning session

“Spare a little thought for Cambodia if possible”

CNVLD — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:31:57 GMT

A special request for consideration from Cambodia

Today we received our first payment from Global Giving - and we say “Thanks Global Givers”

The amount we received was $290

Now this amount may seem small to our readers but for us it has meant a lot and we have now been able to purchase the quality Volleyballs required for our upcoming Cambodian national Volleyball League which starts on the 24th of July

Now the rationale behind this request for Global Givers to consider assisting the CNVLD is:

Somehow we don’t seem to be making progress with our Global Giving fundraising despite all our efforts with very limited internet resources - The total amount raised over 6 months has been $356 (for which we are grateful) - There are times that we often feel here that Cambodia has somehow been forgotten as the world of Aid and development focuses on providing, granted, much needed assistance, to the African continent.

It almost seems that the recent tragic past of Cambodia has been forgotten somewhere in the recent equation of Aid and Development – That Cambodia is still grappling with the legacy of Pol Pots genocide, over 30 years of civil conflict and still dealing with the horrendous consequences of the Landmine with an estimated 3 million landmines still littering the landscape.

In addition, I want to remind readers that, tragically, Cambodia has the highest percentage of persons with a disability, per head of population worldwide and being frank, the CNVLD despite all the success and progress to date has only touched the tip of the iceberg (or palm tree as we like to say here in Cambodia).

There are over 40,000 landmine survivors alone in Cambodia and an estimated 80,000 persons who are the victims of Polio!

Cambodia, despite finally achieving peace and stability is still one of the poorest countries in the world and the CNVLD fully recognizes that there is so much still do be done! Currently the CNVLD operates in 11 provinces out of a total of 26 provinces – we have a long way to go so we can reach out and let more Cambodians with a disability experience the joy and remarkable positive impact of being involved in a CNVLD sports program

So in finishing, all we ask from the many wonderful people who contribute to Global Giving:

“Spare a little thought for Cambodia if possible”

With thanks

Chris Minko Secretary-General The CNVLD Phnom Penh Cambodia Friday, July 10, 2009

Armed Art - Sports Trophies fro Destroyed Weapons - a CNVLD + Don Bosco project

CNVLD — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:41:37 GMT

The Don Bosco Team

George Friml Rolls with Armed Art Internationally renowned metalsmith George Friml began his first ABV CNVLD tenure with Armed Art this week at the Don Bosco Technical School.

George Friml, an Australian Business Volunteer on this his first of three annual tenures, will spend two months training Don Bosco Technical School Phnom Penh students and teachers in fine metalwork techniques, tool production and high quality manufacture procedures as part of the Armed Art project.

A teacher at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), George also provides technical lectures twice a week on subjects such as metallurgy, machine maintenance, creative and technical design and fine finishing.

The Cambodian Don Bosco trainee engineers will initially produce a range of sculptures, furniture and trophies from destroyed weapons donated by the Cambodian Government for inclusion in the upcoming international tour of the ‘Exhibition from Cambodia: To Be Deter-Mined’ before establishing a specialist department within Don Bosco producing unique sports trophies and furniture of the very highest quality

The CNVLD welcomes George Friml to Cambodia

CNVLD, Don Bosco, ABV and Armed Art:

Standing Up Together to Provide Sustainable Employment Skills to Disadvantaged Youth of Cambodia

Putting weapons to a better use

Armed Art - Sports Trophies fro Destroyed Weapons - a CNVLD + Don Bosco project

CNVLD — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:40:28 GMT

The Don Bosco Team

George Friml Rolls with Armed Art Internationally renowned metalsmith George Friml began his first ABV CNVLD tenure with Armed Art this week at the Don Bosco Technical School.

The CNVLD welcomes George Friml to Cambodia

CNVLD, Don Bosco, ABV and Armed Art:

Standing Up Together to Provide Sustainable Employment Skills to Disadvantaged Youth of Cambodia

A lesson in Grinding

CNVLD features in Asia Life Magazine

CNVLD — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:35:37 GMT

Dear Global Givers

Firstly, we want to thank all of those who have donated to the CNVLD via Global Giving - Your help is vital as we work towards establishing Cambodia as the ASEAN Center for Disability Sports development - After all - maybe our readers and supporters are unaware that Cambodia, unfortunately, has the highest ration of disabled persons per head of population, in the world! – This is due to the horrendous legacy of the Landmine and the tragic consequences of Polio which was only eradicated 3 years ago – So all your help is greatly appreciated by the athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

We’d also like to take this opportunity to ask our donors to contact us at any time via info@standupcambodia.net and we would be more than pleased to answer any queries that you may have about the CNVLD and the athletes with a disability of Cambodia and if you are ever in Cambodia – make sure you visit the CNVLD!

We are now two weeks away from the start of the 2009 National Volleyball League and we remind you to keep a close eye on our website: www.standupcambodia..net and remember; this year we have the Kampong Speu Global Giving Scorpions team in the League – So its “ GO SCORPIONS + GO GLOBAL GIVING”

Also read all about the CNVLD and our passion for Corporate Social Responsibility in the latest Edition of Asia Life - attached !

Best from us all in Cambodia !

Attachments:

Asia_Life__July_2009.pdf (PDF)

Thanks Clare - was great to have you here in Cambodia !

CNVLD — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 05:18:36 GMT

Hi Clare - Chris here - Thanks for the comment above however most importantly, allow me to note how pleased we were to meet you and to have someone from Global Giviing with us to see the realities and challenges that we face at the grass roots level - I'd also like to raise an odd but important point which to me should encourage people to continue to support Global Giving and the GG efforts to ensure that funds do actually go the intended beneficiaries - I refer to Clares accomodation in Phnom Penh - So often the CNVLD receives visits from sponsors and donor organisations most of whom opt to stay in the most expensive hotels in Cambodia such as Raffles at $500 a night - It was encouraging to see the GG approcah whereby Clare stayed in a simple backpackers hotel - I respect that greatly !

PS Clare - dont forget : " Go Scorpions"

A Postcard from Cambodian Disability Sports Development

Clare Rutz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:11:38 GMT

Clare Rutz is a student who is traveling throughout Asia this summer and visiting a number of GlobalGiving projects. On June 15th she visited "Cambodian Disability Sports Development." When asked what she would tell her friends about this project, Clare said: “Incredible: You need to see this!"

This is Clare Rutz reporting from Phnom Penh in Cambodia.

In my traveling guide there is a serious bolded warning about going off the beaten path in Cambodia. Landmines are still scattered throughout the country from the brutal days of the Khmer Rouge, and the ones to discover them are unfortunately sorry they had. In America there are facilities and opportunities for the disabled, but in Cambodia it’s another story. They are often cast aside without being given a purpose. The CNVLD addresses this pressing issue by supporting three hundred athletes across the provinces of Cambodia. After years of intense and disciplined training that teaches the athletes self-motivation and confidence they discover the hope they had lost. These tools prepare them for the years to come, and 70% of the athletes go out into the workforce after their time with the team.

These positive efforts often have a ripple effect and rarely stop with the beneficiary. The Slowly the volleyball teams are getting the attention they deserve. They placed third in the world and have become the nations sporting heroes. The ANZ Royal Bank who sponsors a team and manages CNVLD’s funds was asked to put a ramp in for those with wheelchairs at one bank in Phnom Penh. They agreed and then decided to equip each of their banks as handicap accessible. Soon after other companies followed their lead. There is a positive social impact that filters into the community that doesn’t even stop there. Awareness is raised, jobs are had, hope is given, and confidence is acquired. Hope should not be underestimated. It can give someone’s life back.

The wheelchair-racing program equips both men and women with racing equipment and they find the (usually one) paved road in their village and devotionally practice. Before the program many of the participating women were stuck in their huts without the ability to leave. After going through the racing program many move on to be trained to work at the ANZ Royal Bank with a salary and benefits.

Chris Minko, CNVLD’s founder, speaks clearly about the long-term commitment CNVLD has with their athletes. He comments, “The development of individuals who sometimes were beggars or alcoholics can take years. You can’t put a time frame on things.” Sports allow these athletes to integrate themselves back into the community with pride and confidence. The CNVLD staff, which is quite small for the big work they’re doing, work with each athlete on an individual basis while they are trying to expand their program. The need to expand and recruit more people for the volleyball teams and racing program is critical, but CNVLD is greatly limited by their funds. The juggling of funds is a large part of Minko’s job, but his commitment to the teams never falters. There is nothing fancy about the office, and Minko takes a tuk-tuk to each of his meetings. The teams take public buses to training and tournaments and it’s clear that not a single dollar is wasted. CNVLD was awarded the UN Best Practices because of their fiscal transparency made possible by allowing an international bank manage their finances. It’s often hard to know your money is going into the right hands, but it seems that CNVLD is a role model to all grassroots organization that work with both the community and the government in order to build long lasting and trusting relationships with the local people.

In a weeks time there will be meeting with all the coaches (all very serious looking German guys) that will mark the beginning of the 2009 volleyball season. I personally am rooting for the Scorpions whose jerseys will bear the GlobalGiving logo across the back. I just like the name.

The Breakthrough - Social Entrepreneurship at its Best - Cellcard Join the CNVLD!

CNVLD — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:14:50 GMT

A new Look

The Breakthrough - Social Entrepreneurship at its Best - Cellcard Join the CNVLD! The CNVLD is proud to announce the Cellcard 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League.

The CSR Breakthrough- A Quantitative Leap Forward for Cambodian Corporate Sector Responsibility

It’s New – It’s Exciting – It’s Local – It’s Integration at Its Best!

Forging the Path - By leading the way in encouraging CSR in Cambodia, the CNVLD and Cambodia’s Athletes with a Disability are enjoying unprecedented support thanks to their outstanding sporting achievements.

Raising the Game – Cellcard Join the Sports Court The Cellcard 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League represents a quantum leap forward for the development of disability sports in Cambodia and the mainstream integration of Cambodian Athletes with a Disability.

With 4 weekends of competition in the Olympic Stadium, 10 teams, 80 athletes, live to air CTN TV coverage and match round-ups and the highest ever prize money, the Cellcard 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League promises to the most hotly contested ever.

The allure of the prestigious title of Cellcard 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League Champions has training courts searing across the country as coaches prepare for the opening ceremony and matches on 24th July 2009.

The CNVLD and Cellcard’s hot new look for the League fires up with a national advertising campaign led by the Cambodian National Volleyball Team starring in a pioneering TV showing just why they are the best volleyball players in the nation. The campaign projects Cambodia’s Athletes with a Disability firmly into the mainstream conscious of the nation’s evolving popular culture and elevates them further as local sporting heroes. Staying ‘On the Move’ – ANZ Royal Bank Pioneer Long Term CSR Partnership The pioneering CSR partnership between the CNVLD and ANZ Royal Bank has led to significant mutual successes:

Annual ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix Sponsorship of the Phnom Penh ANZ Royal Dragons Volleyball Team ANZ Royal introduces Corporate Disability policy including access and employment rights. ANZ Royal Stand Up as firm advocates of women’s rights through focus on the Cambodian Women’s Wheelchair Racing program International award winning advertising campaign for ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix ANZ Royal provide Financial Advisor and sponsor internship to the CNVLD ANZ Royal provide bank accounts to all CNVLD Athletes – Transparency and Personal Financial Management working in tandem From Strength to Strength – The CNVLD CSR Breakthrough demonstrates the unique power of sport to effect positive social change through: Integration of PwDs into mainstream public awareness through high profile national and international sporting achievements and media exposure Improved legal protection for PwDs in internal corporate policies Encouraging volunteerism and social entrepreneurship among staff in support of social programmes Recognition of corporations providing social support to the local broader community Greater transparency and service delivery by NGOs Sustainable CNVLD programmes Cellcard 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League

See the Action for Yourself!

A new League Logo !

And even New Uniforms !

About the new CNVLD: 2009 and forwards

CNVLD — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:03:48 GMT

About the new CNVLD: The CNVLD recognises the unique ability and power of team sports programs to assist the physical, physiological and socio-economic well being, of Cambodians with a disability and the landmine survivors of Cambodia, with a positive impact within the following key developmental areas: • Health + Physical Rehabilitation (through sport) of landmine survivors and the persons with a disability of Cambodia • Civil Society Development - Through the development of sporting clubs and team membership responsibility • Human Rights - Raising ongoing awareness of disability issues • Women’s Rights - focus program - “Women on the Move” to encourage the participation of women with a disability in sporting activities • Environment - The construction of multi purpose outdoor sports and recreational courts for usage by the broader community including environmentally sensitive landscaping and disability access • Employment Creation - Assistance in finding meaningful employment for the athletes of the CNVLD The CNVLD: • Providing an international standard high quality sports product • Providing an essential service for Cambodian Persons with a Disability Objectives: • Establishing Cambodia as the ASEAN Centre for Disability Sport • Achieving sustainability through Corporate Social Responsibility • Providing national and international disability awareness and education • Achieving complete localisation by 2012 Annual Program: • National Volleyball League • Cambodian National Volleyball Team • National Wheelchair Racing Program • National and International Exhibition Design • Education Program – Raising Awareness about Disability Issues Structure: • Established: 1999 • Cambodian NGO Registration No.153: 2004 • Australian Non-Profit: 2009 • MoU with Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation: 2006 CNVLD Patron: Samdech Akeamohaseney Decho Hun Sen – Since 1999 Staff: CNVLD Secretary General: Mr Christopher Minko (Australia) CNVLD International Board: • Ms. Mmaskepe Sejoe (Chair) (Australia) – Current Human Rights Commissioner Victoria Police – International Women’s Rights specialist • Mr. Dean Cleland (Executive Board Member) (Australia) - CEO ANZ Bank Asia • Mr. Peter Bartu phD. (Executive Board Member) (Australia) Berkeley University – Aide de Camp to General John Sanderson (UNTAC 1991-93) • Father Leo Ochoa (Philippines) (Executive Board Member) Dean – Don Bosco Technical School Cambodia • Mr. Christopher Minko (Executive Board Member) (Australia) - Founder / Secretary General CNVLD Government Liaison: • Senior Government Advisor to CNVLD: H.E Boros Sam Heng • MOSAVY Advisor to CNVLD: Mr Keth Thoeun Local Staff: • Volleyball League Manager: Mr. Piseth Vhen (Cambodia) • Administration Manager: Ms Keth Putheary (Cambodia) • Financial Intern: Ms Kohlap (Cambodia)– Sponsored by ANZ Royal • Financial Advisor to the CNVLD - Ms Sochanna’ Thai (Cambodia) (ANZ Royal Internal Auditor) • Special Projects - Mr Neil Wilford (UK) The Volunteers: • Mr Christian Zepp (Germany) – Cambodian National Team Coach • Mr Chan Rotha (Cambodia) (ANZ Royal Bank Community Liaison Manager) – ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Pri • Ms. Sochanna Thai (Cambodia) (ANZ Royal Bank Internal Auditor)– CNVLD Financial Advisor • Mr Piseth Peng (Cambodia) (HR Manager DDD) – National Volleyball League Volunteers • Dr. Elise Read (Australia) (Doctor SOS Clinic)– Official Doctor to the CNVLD • Mr Brian Webster (UK) (Teacher ISPP)– Education Program • Ms Marion Harris (Canada) (Teacher ISPP) – Education Program • Ms Sophie Smith (Australia) (Teacher ISPP) – Education Program Financial: • Official Bank: ANZ Royal Bank • USA Due Diligence – Approved 2008 Media / Advertising: • Official TV Station: CTN Cambodia • Official English Language Media: SE Globe Magazine / Asia Life Magazine • Official Ad Agency to Cellcard National Volleyball League: Brand Solutions Awards: • 2002 - International Fair Play Diploma of Honour (UNESCO) • 2004 - Swiss Academy for Development Best Practices Award • 2006 - United Nations Best Practices Award for Sports and Development for the 2005 UN International Year of Sport • 2007 - Nominated 2007 Australian National Disability Awards • 2007 - Britannica Enclopaedia Celebration of Life Through Sports Award • 2008 - Global Finalists Nike-Changemakers Sport for a Better World Competition • 2008 - CNVLD initiates first ever Cambodian National Disability Awards • 2009 - Global Finalists Nike-Changemakers Gamechangers Women in Sport Competition The CNVLD - Cambodia’s Premier Sporting Organisation www.standupcambodia.net

About Us

CNVLD — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 01:39:17 GMT

A PDF about the CNVLD - Enjoy !

Attachments:

CNLVD.pdf (PDF)

Ready, Set, Give – Summer Sports Challenge

CNVLD — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 01:35:01 GMT

Thank for your continued support and interest in Cambodia’s premier sporting Program – The CNVLD: “Cambodian athletes with a disability leading the nation’s sports development

We wanted to let you know that the CNVLD is participating in Global Giving’s Ready, Set, Give – Summer Sports Challenge, a fundraising opportunity for nonprofit organizations like ours who use sports to bring positive social change.

From June 23 to July 10, projects generating the most number of donors will be eligible for prizes of $2500, $1500, and $500! You can help us win this challenge!

Every donation helps, and no donation is too small. You can make support to the CNVLD for as little as $10 and make an impact.

Click here to donate: http://www.globalgiving.com/projects/cambodian-disability-sports-development/

The CNVLD and Cambodian athletes with a disability are very excited about this opportunity on Global Giving.

Please share this with your friends and family and ask them to help too!

Thank you,

Christopher Minko; for and on behalf of the CNVLD athletes with a disability of Cambodia

Secretary-General

The CNVLD

Phnom Penh

12 June 2009

Global Giving Awarded Naming Rights of Kompong Speu Scorpions Volleyball Team

CNVLD — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 04:21:00 GMT

Global Giving Awarded naming rights of Kompong Speu Scorpions Volleyball Team The CNVLD is proud to announce Global Giving as the new 2009 naming rights + logo of the Kompong Speu Scorpions in recognition of Global Giving’s international efforts to raise funds for the CNVLD.

The Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions, coached by Cambodian National Team athlete Pin Sarath are one of the strongest teams in the National Volleyball League, a position they enhanced by defeating three time finalists Siem Reap Globe Magazine Eagles in the 2008 National League to claim 3rd place.

Coach Pin Sarath, who was born with severe polio in one leg was one of the most important contributors to the Cambodian National Volleyball Team when they became #3 in the World after defeating Poland at the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup. Sarath will take his place at the forefront of the team once again when they participate in the 2009 WOVD India World Cup where Cambodia aim to become #1 in the World. Earlier this year, the Kompong Speu Global Giving Scorpions gave an outstanding demonstration of their skill and athleticism when they defeated the Australian Defence Forces Team 6-0 at the Annual CNVLD Australian Defence Forces Friendship Tournament in Ream Province.

Global Giving have hosted the CNVLD as one of their highlight projects since the start of 2009 when the CNVLD passed the United States Due Diligence requirements for donations for non-profit organisations from the United States.

To donate to the CNVLD through the Global Giving programme, simply visit The Global Giving CNVLD Page and follow the instructions on how to donate an amount of your choice.

Global Giving and the CNVLD:

Standing Up Together in Support of the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia

Ms Tol Kolab of the CNVLD– Breaking Down Prejudice

CNVLD — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 02:15:49 GMT

Ms Tol Kolab– Breaking Down Prejudice, Being a Role Model and Pioneering the Push for CSR and Financial Transparency as a Cambodian Woman with a Disability. Ms Tol Kolab, 28, the most recent appointee to the CNVLD team, represents the new generation of Cambodian Women with a Disability who are determined to provide role models for their peers while being an active part of the increasing push for CSR and Financial Transparency in Cambodia. The appointment of Ms Tol Kolab as the new CNVLD Trainee Financial Manager is an integral element of one of the most pioneering financial management programmes in Cambodia. The CNVLD set new standards of transparency among NGOs in 2008 by inviting ANZ Royal Bank to oversee all aspects of its financial management. ANZ Royal Bank appointed their internal auditor Ms Sochanna Thai to conduct a review of all financial systems and subsequently identify and employ a part-time trainee to implement her recommendations. This unique partnership is funded by a combination of the CNVLD and a special ANZ Royal Internship Programme. Ms Tol Kolab has been working with Digital Divide Data (DDD) since 2002 and in a financial capacity since 2006. DDD was the Winner of the 2008 Annual CNVLD ‘Best Employer - Persons with a Disability’ Award and their dedicated staff also provide the core Volunteer Crew for the Annual National Volleyball League. ANZ Royal identified Miss Tol Kolab as an ideal candidate for the position of CNVLD Financial Manager and she now works part time with both organisations. At weekends, Kolab receives tutelage and supervision from ANZ Royal Bank internal auditor Ms. Sochanna Thai who volunteers her time for this purpose. The result is one of the most outstanding examples of the unique power of sport to foster positive social change within a framework of Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Transparency in the NGO sector. Kolab, who suffered polio at a young age, went to school in Kandal Province before moving to Phnom Penh in 1999 where she studied initially at Wat Thanh in a programme supported by Mary Knoll. After a friend told her about DDD, she began work there in 2002, first as an Operator digitizing archives for Richmond University and then in accounting. “I wanted to become an accountant to understand clearly about financial planning and how successful organisations and businesses are budgeted run and reported.” Thanks to her dedication, Kolab is enjoying great success, but her dignity belies the challenges she continues to face as a young Cambodian woman with a disability. Kolab spoke with the CNVLD about her experiences and ambition. “When I was young and went to school some of the students always mocked me and said ‘Why do you waste your time studying so hard and wanting to go to university? You are disabled and will never get a job.’ I used to cry a lot but never stopped studying because I knew the only way to stop this happening was to improve myself and prove them wrong. Now that I have a good education and a good job, people have changed their attitudes towards me. They congratulate me, are happy to talk with me and are very friendly.” “In my life, my goal is to have the opportunity to help persons with a disability have hope that they can succeed in changing people’s attitudes towards them. I don’t want to see people with a disability begging for money on the street because it makes people look down on them.” “Being independent is very important. People often look down on persons with a disability because they think we cannot do things for ourselves. Now I support myself – I ride my own motorbike I study and have a good job – if you help yourself, people help you back.” “When I studied at university, many people were very good to me. The teacher’s especially were very kind and also a lot of the students who helped me get up the stairs and reach the classroom. But some people still looked down on me and it was mostly the younger people aged 16 to 19. A few people joke or say bad words. I have found that older people in Cambodia are often more understanding and caring than younger people now. Education is the most important thing. You need education to understand about disability.” “I found about the ANZ CNVLD Internship through the DDD human resources department. I am very interested in working with the disability sports organisation because I want to work with this issue and with the athletes who have successfully overcome their disabilities. The athletes are a great example for all people with a disability because they can inspire them to feel they can succeed just like them.” “The new Disability Law is very important for Cambodia because many places are difficult to access. After being promoted to the position of cashier at DDD, I went to university to study accounting. Because of the time needed to study, I had to go back to being an operator at DDD. But then I had to give up my studies because the classrooms were on the 4th and 5th floors of the school and after climbing the stairs my legs hurt so much I couldn’t concentrate. Now I am looking for the new school where I can access the classrooms easily. I would like to ask all the managers and investors in Cambodia to think about their offices when they design them so there are ramps and lifts so that people with a disability can have equal access. “My ambition for the future is to work for a company like ANZ Royal where I can learn international standard financial management and service provision, have a very secure job and also be a role model for Cambodian women with a disability. “I am so happy learning with Sochanna because she is able to do a very high job, has a lot of responsibility and trains me very clearly. It also shows the changing role of women in Cambodian society. In the past the men here did everything and the women stayed at home but now they can have good jobs. I want to show that women can do these jobs as well.” “This has taught me an important lesson – the only way you can change people’s attitudes is to do it yourself. If I can be successful, I can help change people’s attitudes about people with a disability. I want to be a role model and people with a disability to study hard, work hard and try their best because when they are successful, they will change people’s thinking.”

The CNVLD Welcomes Ms Tol Kolab to the Nation’s Best Sports Programme!

Ms Tol Kolab, CNVLD, ANZ Royal Bank and DDD – CSR In Action At It’s Best

Breakthrough -Disability Intergration at its best !

CNVLD — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 01:33:18 GMT

CNVLD Athletes Break Disability Ceiling in new Cellcard TV Ad Campaign The Cambodian National Volleyball Team have again broken through the Disability Awareness Ceiling and achieved pioneering mainstream national media recognition for being an integral part in the development of the new emerging Cambodia by featuring in two Cellcard national TV advertising campaigns.

Watch the new Cellcard Ad on YouTube

Cellcard are Cambodia’s largest and most successful telecommunications corporation who pride themselves on having their finger on the pulse of Cambodia’s rapidly emerging pop culture, while the Cambodian National Volleyball Team are one of the most successful Cambodian sports teams in recent history.

Cellcard’s advertising campaign, launched on CTN TV last week and aired every day, reflects the immense positive developments in Cambodia over the past few years and the inclusion of the Cambodian National Volleyball Team is indicative of the role that the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia have played within this paradigm. The striking sequences of professional, international standard volleyball in the Olympic Stadium featured in the adverts have placed the Athletes with a Disability firmly on the mainstream media podium as ‘Cambodia’s National Sporting Heroes.’

Their success in winning Bronze and clinching the World #3 spot at the 2007 WOVD Cambodia Standing Volleyball World Cup won the hearts of the nation as they played before capacity crowds never seen before or since at indoor sports events at the Olympic Stadium. No other nation in the world reveres their Athletes with a Disability as their True National Sporting Heroes and Cambodia, her Athletes with a Disability and the CNVLD can be rightly proud that their achievements have made them unique in a world where able bodied sports men and women are more often revered and rewarded.

The awareness of Disability Sport raised through this pioneering ad campaign will also galvanise greater attendance at the upcoming 2009 National Volleyball League which will also be broadcast live to air on CTN for the first time in history. The CNVLD intends to cement this recognition when, later this year, the Cambodian National Volleyball Team, under inspirational National Coach Christian Zepp, will travel to India for the 2009 Standing Volleyball World Cup where their objective remains – To Become #1 in the World! Cellcard, CTN and the CNVLD: Pioneering Mainstream Promotion of the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia

Thanks !

CNVLD — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:29:24 GMT

Thanks To Donna + Frank - Global Giving donors - we will shortly be purchasing 24 Mikaza Volleyballs for distribution to the clubs of the 2009 Cambodian National Volleyball League !

We apprecate the help greatly !

Thanks from Cambodia

The CNVLD - Education and Disability - a powerful partnership !

CNVLD — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:25:42 GMT

Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons Shine in Tournament at ISPP with Defiance College The Annual ISPP Mixed Volleyball Tournament was held last Friday with the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons, ISPP students and Undergraduate students from Defiance College, Ohio playing in mixed teams for the title of 2009 House Champions.

In one of the best examples of mainstreaming disability sport and international education, the red hot, all-new Falcons team wowed the 30 student athletes with an outstanding display of athleticism and skill prior to the tournament when mixed teams consisting of 2 Falcons, 2 ISPP and 2 Defiance College students competed in a round robin competition for the title of 2009 House Champions.

The CNVLD – ISPP – Templestowe College relationship, now in its fifth successful consecutive year continues to reach new heights of cooperation and integration thanks to the outstanding work of ISPP Teachers Mr Brian Webster and Ms Marion Harris and the commitment of their students in Cambodia and the work of Templestowe College in Melboune Australia.

For Defiance College, from Ohio USA, this was their first year working together with the CNVLD and Laura Derov, a McMaster School of Advanced Humanity Fellow had spent the prior weeks interviewing over 30 CNVLD athletes as part of her dissertation and research for a publication in the Defiance Journal. The entire Defiance Delegation of 12 students and 5 teachers joined the tournament as a farewell on their last day in Cambodia.

Reflecting the success of the Disability / Landmines Study Group and the integration of disability sport and education, the students of the ISPP Disability and Landmines Study Group were responsible for organizing the Annual ISPP Mixed Volleyball Tournament with assistance from the ISPP P.E Department.

As the tournament progressed the myriad of immensely positive results of this unique cooperation became crystal clear for all to see. The unique power of sport shone again through the afternoon monsoon as the ISPP and Defiance students immediately bonded on the court together with the Falcons despite having only met just minutes before and the three groups being aged from 14 to 45.

The awe-inspiring strength, skill, agility and athleticism of the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons also proved not only that they have been training hard all year but intend to mount a serious challenge for the title of 2009 National League Champions.

Clearer still is the manner in which the ISPP students sincerely look up to the Athletes with a Disability as their local sporting heroes and, more importantly, learn camaraderie, teamwork and volleyball skills from their erstwhile tutors. After three years of playing together with the ISPP students, the Falcons pedagogic skills now shine as they demonstrate tactics and then encourage the students to replicate them. Even the ISPP P.E Teachers noted the improvement in the student’s volleyball skills and ISPP now have the clear objective to see their volleyball team win at the international MRISSA Volleyball competition.

The overwhelmingly positive reactions of the students and teachers from Defiance College to the levels of cooperation, understanding, and above all FUN, on display on Friday was also reflective of the great success of the CNVLD’s international schools cooperation programme.

After four rounds of increasingly intense competition, it was congratulations and adulation for the ISPP Sunbears who edged out the ISPP Dragons to claim the prize of 2009 House Champions!

The CNVLD wishes to thank ISPP and the Students and Teachers of the Disability / Landmine Study Group, the Defiance College Delegation and the Takeo ISPP Templestowe Falcons

The CNVLD, ISPP, Templestowe College and Defiance College: Using the Unique Power of Sport to Raise Awareness of Disability through Education.

Cambodian Update

CNVLD — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:23:24 GMT

Cambodia Passes National Disability Law The National Assembly of the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia passed the first ever National Disability Law by a unanimous vote of 75 by lawmakers from the ruling Cambodian People’s Party on Friday 29th May 2009 guaranteeing the rights of persons with a disability.

The new law, which has been in its drafting stages since the establishment of a Government Working Group in 2001 and was sent to the Council of Ministers for ratification in February 2008, is a landmark piece of legislation in a nation which has one of the highest per capita rates of disability in the world.

H.E Saem Sokha, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation stated that he was proud of the new legislation and especially its provisions to guarantee equal access for persons with a disability to healthcare and education.

The CNVLD congratulates the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia and H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation for their work in successfully enshrining into law the rights for Persons with a Disability of Cambodia.

Through its internationally recognised Disability Sports programmes, the CNVLD will continue to provide sporting and economic opportunities to the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia who, through their high profile athletic endeavours and successes, raise the profile and awareness of the disability issue in support of the efforts of the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Australian Sports Doctor Stands Up with the CNVLD

CNVLD — Fri, 15 May 2009 00:33:49 GMT

Australian Sports Doctor Stands Up with the CNVLD Dr. Elise Reid, a qualified Australian sports doctor currently resident in Cambodia, has Stood Up to be appointed as the Voluntary Sports Doctor for the CNVLD sports programmes.

An accomplished athlete herself with exceptional experience at the highest levels of Australian sports medicine, including as the Assistant Club Doctor at Essendon Football Club Australia, Dr Elise Reid has volunteered for the official position of CNVLD Sports Doctor.

As a holder of Bachelors and Masters in Sports Medicine and a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Dr Reid is currently the most qualified individual in Cambodia in the field of sports medicine and the CNVLD is proud to welcome her aboard.

As part of her ongoing voluntary position, Dr Reid will be initially responsible for the following crucial tasks:

Classification of 2009 National Volleyball League Athletes in cooperation with Jennie Cole of the Australian Paralympic Committee. Present at 2009 National Volleyball League to provide assistance and back up to ICRC / MOSAVY CPO during all competitions at the Olympic Stadium Phnom Penh. Classification and medical assistance to the 2009 ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix athletes during training and competitions. Classification and training assistance with current ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix Male National Champion Van Vun in preparation for his first international competition in the 2009 Melbourne Marathon in October. In the long-term, the CNVLD, in cooperation with Dr. Reid, hopes to initiate a local training programme to ensure that in future years, Cambodian Standing Volleyball can be represented at the Classification level by local representatives.

The CNVLD and Dr Elise Reid: Standing Up Together to Ensure the Highest Levels of Fitness for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

ANZ Royal Bank Appoint Financial Advisor to the CNVLD

CNVLD — Fri, 15 May 2009 00:31:51 GMT

ANZ Royal Bank Appoint Financial Advisor to the CNVLD In line with the CNVLD’s policy of achieving international standard financial transparency, we are proud to announce the appointment of ANZ Royal Bank Internal Auditor Ms. Sochanna Thai as the CNVLD Financial Advisor.

Pioneering new financial transparency standards again in the Aid and Development sector, Ms Sochanna Thai has volunteered her services through the ANZ Royal Corporate Social Responsibility programme to oversee the implementation of new international standard financial systems at the CNVLD.

Once the new systems are up and running, ANZ Royal Bank will also sponsor an internship for a young Cambodian accountant to work at the CNVLD to maintain the financial systems with background support from ANZ Royal Bank

This development comes after the first phase of the integration of the CNVLD’s financial systems with ANZ Royal Bank following the establishment of bank accounts for over 100 CNVLD Athletes with a Disability in 2008-2009 into which all of their training subsidies and prize monies are paid directly. All CNVLD staff members are also paid directly into specially opened ANZ Royal Bank accounts.

The CNVLD wishes to thank ANZ Royal Bank, CEO Mr Stephen Higgins and Ms Sochanna Thai for their continued ongoing support for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia.

The CNVLD and ANZ Royal Bank Pioneering New Standards in Financial Transparency in the Aid and Development Sector

Londons Calling

CNVLD — Fri, 15 May 2009 00:29:24 GMT

Londons Calling

Adopting the legendary anthem ‘London’s Calling’ by iconic UK band ‘The Clash’ as the Cambodian theme song for the London 2012 Paralympic Games, the CNVLD is gearing up to send the first ever Cambodian wheelchair racing athlete to the London Games.

CNVLD Secretary General Chris Minko announced this week that “Through cooperation with the National Paralympic Committee of Cambodia and the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the CNVLD has been tasked with providing the training and entry requirements necessary for ensuring the participation of a Cambodian Wheelchair Racing Athlete for the first time ever in the Paralympic Games.”

As the run-up for the London 2012 Paralympic Games heats up, Cambodian Male National Wheelchair Racing Champion since 2006, Van Vun, is already dedicated to his task and is in training with his team mates for the 1st Round of the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix scheduled for 25th April 2009.

As the first step in the formal preparations for a three year intensive training programme, the CNVLD, in cooperation with Victoria Wheelchair Sport, hopes to send Van Vun to participate in a week long Paralympic athlete’s training camp in Geelong, Australia with some of the world’s leading athletes and coaches. After completing the training camp, Vun will then travel to Sydney where he will compete in the Sydney Marathon.

Mr Van Vun – Cambodian National Champion – Wheelchair Racing On his return to Cambodia, Van Vun will begin an intensive training programme in preparation for further international competitions prior to qualification for the 2012 Games.

Currently only fractions away from Paralympic qualification times over a number of distances while racing in the Cambodian produced Angkor II, Vun’s performances in international standard racing chairs will undoubtedly bring him up to world standard. The aim is to see Cambodia’s first ever Paralympic medal brought home around Vun’s neck.

Van Vun will be assisted in his quest for Paralympic qualification and a good result by UK citizen Neil Wilford who has been officially appointed as CNVLD London 2012 Project Coordinator and Racing Wheelchair Coach/Mentor to Van Vun.

Secretary General Chris Minko has great confidence in the appointment stating that “Having played a central role in the development of the Cambodian Wheelchair Racing Programme since its inception in 2005 and the 15 subsequent events, Neil is perfectly positioned as a UK citizen to fulfil the historic objective of assisting Van Vun to become not only the first ever Cambodian wheelchair racing athlete to qualify for the Paralympic Games but also achieve a good result and compete with pride and dignity. In the immediate future, the CNVLD also has the firm objective of establishing a strong cooperative working dialogue and relationship with the UK.”

After 9 years of successful international competition, the Cambodian National Standing Volleyball team are currently ranked #3 in the World and the CNVLD is confident that through its innovative and determined sports development programme, a similar result can be achieved with the wheelchair racing programme which is exclusively sponsored by ANZ Royal Bank, the acknowledged leaders of Corporate Social Responsibility in Cambodia.

The CNVLD also has two entries showcasing the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix in ‘Beyond Sport’, the highly prestigious international sports competition chaired by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and raising awareness of sports development programmes in the run-up to the London Games.

So with ‘London Calling’, the CNVLD urges its supporters all over the world to get behind Van Vun as he aims to place Cambodia firmly on the international sporting stage!

The CNVLD and Van Vun: Aiming to Bring Cambodia’s First Paralympic Wheelchair Racing Medal Home!

Cambodian Wheelies roll into '09

cminko — Fri, 15 May 2009 00:27:01 GMT

ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix 1st Round Race Report The ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix 2009 got off to a flying start on Saturday 25th April as the nation’s top 24 racing athletes took over the streets of Phnom Penh to compete for the titles of fastest athletes in Cambodia.

After a week of solid pre-monsoon rain, the clouds parted and the sun shone for the first race of the season as the teams from Phnom Penh, Battambang, Kompong Speu and Kompong Chhnang descended on Phnom Penh for the first race of the year resplendent in their new uniforms.

The ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix was honoured to have Under-Secretary of State Ministry of Social Affairs Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation H.E Chup Tony preside over the event, joined by Mr James Lowrey ANZ Royal Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking, Mr Paul Clements ANZ Royal Chief Operating Officer and Mr Stephen Higgins ANZ Royal Chief Executive Officer.

The afternoons schedule saw 8 heats followed by the Female and Male Grand Finals. In the first three Female heats, the Battambang All-Women’s Racing Team again stamped their authority on the event by filling three of the four finals places. Krouen Vannon (25.66 secs), Tor Chanta (28.63 secs) and Coach Sieng Sokchan (30.82 secs) being joined by former Female Champion Loet Ngait (26.75 secs) from Kompong Speu.

The five Male heats were a much closer affair with only 9 seconds separating a field of 17 athletes between the ages of 21 and 52. However, there were no major upsets as reigning Male Champion Van Vun who burnt up the tarmac in 20.78 secs was joined by Eng Laihourn (21.22 secs), Un Sophal (22.00 secs) and former Champion Souen Vanna (21.85 secs).

With the heats over, it was time for the Grand Finals and the Championship showdown. In the Female category, Krouen Vannon from Battambang swept over the line in 1st in a time of 25.22 secs, edging former Female Champion Loet Ngait out into 2nd (26.35 secs) with Tor Chanta powering through to a thoroughly deserved 3rd (27.59 secs).

With London Calling, Reigning Male Champion Van Vun knew he had to put on a solid performance to justify his selection as the Cambodian candidate to qualify for the London 2012 Paralympic Games and didn’t disappoint the crowds with a supreme performance which saw him take victory by a clear 2 chair lengths in a searing time of just 20.35 secs. Eng Laihourn, one of the fastest improving athletes, from Phnom Penh took 2nd (21.41 secs) with the Scorpion of Phnom Penh Souen Vanna hot on his wheels to take 3rd (21.44 secs).

In line with the strict CNVLD policy of providing equal prize money to both male and female athletes and of ensuring the majority of funds are channelled into direct athlete support, the Champions received a purse of US$200, 2nd Place US$100 and 3rd US$50 which represents some of the highest sports prize money on offer in any sport in Cambodia.

After the race the athletes took a victory parade around the Independence Monument bringing traffic to a halt as local residents cheered them on. The Australian Business Association then provided all the athletes a free barbeque dinner and refreshments in celebration of their efforts and in recognition of Anzac Day.

The CNVLD also wishes to highlight the outstanding support and commitment of the 30 ANZ Royal Bank Volunteer Staff who worked as Race Timers, Marshals, Starters and Water Monitors. The professionalism and dedication of these young Cambodians proved the crucial importance of volunteerism in civil society development and the successful hosting of large public events. Without their enthusiasm and positive attitude, the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix would be a lesser event.

The CNVLD wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to the following for their outstanding support for the Athletes with a Disability of Cambodia: H.E Ith Sam Heng, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, H.E Kep Chuk Tema, Governor of the Municipality of Phnom Penh, the Police of Chaktomuk District, ANZ Royal Bank and the 30 ANZ Royal Bank Volunteer Staff, Mr Chan Rotha, ANZ Royal Community Liaison Manager, the Royal Rattanak Hospital, R.O Water, Dr Elise Read, Mr. Piseth Pich, Ms. Sophie Smith, Mr Jean Loncle, Mr Cha Hok, Mrs Srey Hun, the Australian Business Association, South Eastern Globe Magazine and the Psar Kapko restaurant. Most of all the CNVLD wishes to salute the dedication, commitment and ability of the ANZ Royal CNVLD Wheelie Grand Prix Athletes