Introducing AUPP’s Eagle of the Month – Bun Samkhan
Date: 2026-01-29T11:14:35

1. Could you tell us about yourself?

My name is Samkhan Bun, and I am currently a senior at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP), pursuing a dual degree in Business Administration in partnership with the University of Arizona. Alongside my academic journey, I am also a businessman, model, and actor.

I am deeply passionate about exploring new experiences and continuously striving to become the best version of myself. My journey has not been easy. Stepping outside my comfort zone to become a public figure challenged me, especially as I have always valued my privacy. However, this path has broadened my perspective and given me a deeper understanding of the society we live in today. Through these experiences, I have learned to adapt, grow, and evolve—both personally and professionally.

2. Could you tell us about the achievements you are most proud of?

Over the past few years, I have achieved several milestones that I am especially proud of. One of the most significant was launching my own small business, a major step in my career, particularly while pursuing a degree in business. When I first started, the reality of entrepreneurship quickly challenged my expectations. Issues such as manpower, budgeting, and operational efficiency became far more complex than I had anticipated. While every business begins with a clear vision and model, unforeseen challenges emerge once operations begin. At times, these obstacles felt overwhelming, and I even considered walking away.

Fortunately, many of these challenges aligned with the courses I was taking at the time. The ability to apply classroom knowledge directly to real-world situations proved invaluable, especially during the early, chaotic stages of the business. This hands-on learning experience strengthened both my academic understanding and my practical decision-making skills.

Another achievement I am particularly proud of is my unexpected entry into the acting and modeling industry. Coming from a family rooted in business—and being actively involved in business myself—this path was never part of my original plan. I had always envisioned myself as an entrepreneur, constantly studying Cambodia’s F&B market and focusing on long-term business growth.

Everything changed when I was approached to do a photoshoot for a clothing brand. At first, I saw it simply as a fun opportunity—posing in stylish outfits while earning some extra income. I remember thinking, “This should be fun.” I repeated that thought over and over until I gradually realized that I was becoming genuinely invested in the industry.

3. Could you tell us about one thing or experience you encountered that changed your life?

One experience that truly changed my life was my unexpected entry into the film industry. It began when a complete stranger reached out to me on social media and invited me to audition for a small role in a movie. At first, I hesitated. Until then, my experience was limited to modeling—standing still in front of a camera. Acting, however, requires emotion, movement, and vulnerability. After some thought, I asked myself, “If I’m already representing major brands on social media, why not take a step onto the big screen?” That question pushed me to attend my first casting.

Although I did not pass that initial audition, the experience took an unexpected turn. As I was about to leave the casting hall, a well-known director approached me and asked if I would be interested in auditioning for another project. He said, “When are you free? I want to cast you for another movie.” At that moment, I knew I couldn’t let this opportunity slip away.

The following week, I attended another casting and was selected for a main role in the film Far Away Close to You. That moment marked a turning point in my life and my career. It was my true leap into the acting industry—an experience that felt surreal, yet deeply transformative. It taught me to embrace uncertainty, take risks, and remain open to opportunities I never planned for. This experience changed the way I see growth, reminding me that sometimes the most life-changing moments come from paths we never intended to take.

4. Who is the person you look up to the most?

The person I admire most is my mother—a strong, independent businesswoman who has been my greatest source of inspiration. Regardless of the situation or stage of my life, she has always been the one I look up to.

While a mother’s role is often defined by care, love, and guidance, my mother went far beyond that. She not only provided me with unwavering support and nurturing, but she also became my first and most influential teacher. From a very young age, she introduced me to the world of business, patiently teaching me what it means to build, manage, and sustain one.

Learning about business from such a strong and independent woman has been incredibly meaningful to me. She didn’t just teach me concepts—she led by example. Through her resilience, discipline, and determination, she showed me the value of hard work and integrity. She held my hand as I learned, guided me through challenges, and helped set me on a path toward a brighter future.

Her influence continues to shape who I am today, both personally and professionally, and for that, she will always be the person I admire most.

5. What are the steps you took that led you to where you are right now?

The journey that led me to where I am today has been shaped by intentional choices, adaptability, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone. The first foundational step was pursuing higher education in Business Administration at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) in partnership with the University of Arizona. My academic journey gave me a strong theoretical framework and encouraged critical thinking, which became essential as I began navigating real-world challenges.
The next major step was launching my own small business while still studying. This experience exposed me to the realities of entrepreneurship—managing manpower, budgeting, and daily operations. Although the challenges were more complex than I initially anticipated, they became valuable learning opportunities. Applying classroom knowledge directly to my business allowed me to strengthen my decision-making skills and develop resilience during difficult moments when giving up felt like an option.

Another defining step was my decision to embrace unexpected opportunities in the modeling and acting industry. Coming from a business-oriented background, entering the creative industry was never part of my original plan. However, accepting a modeling opportunity for a clothing brand gradually pushed me into the public sphere and helped me build confidence, adaptability, and a broader understanding of society. Despite being naturally private, I learned to navigate public exposure and personal growth simultaneously.

A pivotal moment in my journey was stepping into the film industry. Accepting an invitation to attend a casting—despite hesitation and initial rejection—taught me the importance of persistence and openness. Being given a second opportunity and ultimately landing a main role in Far Away Close to You reinforced my belief in embracing uncertainty and taking calculated risks.

Ultimately, the steps that led me to where I am today were built on education, hands-on experience, resilience, mentorship, and the courage to seize opportunities—even when they came from unexpected directions.

6. What are the happiest moments of your life?

I don’t believe there is a single “happiest moment” in life. Happiness is fluid—it changes depending on the circumstances we are in and the phase of life we’re experiencing. What we define as happiness today may look very different years from now.
That said, there are certain moments that stay with us because of the meaning attached to them. One of those moments for me was graduating from high school. It marked the end of an important chapter in my life. High school was filled with challenges, joy, and moments of deep reflection—experiences that ultimately shaped who I am today. Looking back, it wasn’t just an ending, but a transition that carried lasting lessons and growth.

Another memorable moment was when my business began earning real income—enough for me to confidently say, “This is actually working.” Starting a business is far from easy. Once it opens, unexpected and often complex problems arise that require constant problem-solving and resilience. Reaching the point where I earned back my initial capital was deeply fulfilling. It wasn’t just about the money, but the validation that my effort, risk, and persistence had paid off. It was my first business, and seeing it succeed is a moment I truly cherish.

7. Is there any advice to the people that look up to you?

If there is one piece of advice I would give to people who look up to me, it would be this: never turn down an opportunity.

In life, it is very easy to walk away from things. Opportunities, however, do not come knocking every day. When something presents itself and you feel even the slightest sense that it could be beneficial, take it. You may not immediately know where it will lead or what it may offer, but that uncertainty is part of its value.

Give yourself the chance to explore it. Decide along the way whether it is right for you. If you grow to love it, commit fully and give it your best effort. If you realize it is not for you, take time to reflect, and then have the courage to walk away.

Always remember that an opportunity could be your gateway to achieving your dreams. Letting it go may mean that dreams will always stay a dream.