Damnok Toek has welcomed its new Executive Director, Mr. Im Norin, after more than two decades under Dr. Sam Sovannarith’s leadership. Following Dr. Sovannarith’s decision to step down last year taking on a role as Senior Advisor for Damnok Toek, Mr. Norin was selected as the new leader of the organisation. Mr. Norin brings to Damnok Toek an extensive background in human rights and social justice, which he plans to utilise in advancing Damnok Toek’s mission and impact within the community.
Mr. Norin’s observation of the Cambodian society, particularly regarding children left behind when their parents migrate to neighbouring countries, motivated him to engage with Damnok Toek.
Mr. IM Norin
Furthermore, he has seen how people with disabilities are being discriminated against in the local society. As Damnok Toek’s new Executive Director, he is committed to ensuring that these individuals can live their lives filled with dignity, freedom, and inclusion.
“I am inspired to work in this sector to contribute to making Cambodia a better place for everyone, especially the vulnerable and marginalized people” – said by Mr. Norin.
To ensure the organisation maintains its financial support, Mr. Norin is dedicated to take the lead in developing a long-term organisational strategy. He believes in the importance of having a clear strategy to optimise Damnok Toek’s effective and sustainable impact on children and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Mr. Norin aims to strengthening internal governance to further enhance accountability and transparency, which will boost the organisation’s visibility and demonstrate its capability to deliver planned results.
Still, as Mr. Norin observes the Cambodian society, there are social-economic issues that need continuous attention, although it has progressed to some extent. For instance, the services to support people with disabilities are lacking, as there are still a lot of people being left behind since the state cannot provide the needed care alone. As a result, the civil society serves an important role in collaboration with the state sector in assisting these vulnerable people.
Looking forward, Mr. Norin hopes to see Cambodians coming together to help vulnerable children. He says, “It’s time that Cambodians give back to their society, especially helping those who are vulnerable and left behind”. Rather than relying on support from foreign governments and international communities, Cambodian people need to help one another.
Dr. Sam Sovannarith handing over Damnok Toek leaderhip to Mr. Im Norin
Mr. Norin expresses his gratitude for trust which the Board of Directors of Damnok Toek has placed in him to take over the leadership of the organisation from Dr. Sovannarith. He is also grateful to Dr. Sovannarith for his dedication and steadfast commitment which he has consistently shown over the years to drive the organisation forward. Moreover, Mr. Norin is looking forward to building strong relationships with Damnok Toek’s donors, partners and networks, as well as with the committed team of colleagues; serving every day to improve the life of vulnerable children and their families.
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