The Cambodia-Laos Young Leaders Programme (CLYLP) is an inspiring initiative designed to strengthen the capacity of emerging civil society leaders from Cambodia and Laos. Managed by UnionAID in partnership with Khmer Farmer Products (KFP) in Cambodia, the Participatory Development Knowledge Agency (PAKA) in the Lao PDR, and Auckland University of Technology (AUT), the programme is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
CLYLP equips young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development in their communities and the broader Southeast Asia region. Through a mix of structured learning, participatory research, and peer collaboration, participants are encouraged to explore new ideas and creative approaches to local development challenges. One of the key components of the programme is the development of a participatory action project, where each young leader identifies a specific issue in their community and designs a project proposal to address it.
The programme is delivered in two parts: a group learning journey in Aotearoa New Zealand and a community-based project implementation phase upon returning home. With continuous mentorship and support from UnionAID and local partners, participants conduct community consultations, refine their project plans, and implement their initiatives in two phases—scoping and execution.
By fostering inclusive, cross-ethnic collaboration and hands-on learning, CLYLP empowers a new generation of young leaders to become change agents in their societies. The programme not only contributes to personal and professional growth but also has a lasting impact on local development efforts in both Cambodia and Laos.
For more information, visit: https://unionaid.org.nz/young-leaders-programmes/clylp
