Eagle of AUPP, Hellan Vin
Date: 2025-04-28T14:40:22

1. Could you tell us about yourself?

My name is Hellan Vin, and I am a senior pursuing a dual degree in Information Technology Management at the American University of Phnom Penh and Computer Science at Fort Hays State University. My passion lies at the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship, a path that began with curiosity and gradually evolved into purpose. I firmly believe that technology serves more than just a powerful tool but also a catalyst for innovation, capable of bridging gaps in businesses and supporting them in achieving their goals more effectively. Growing up in Cambodia, I became aware of the gender disparity in STEM, where women were often underrepresented and the tech industry was commonly perceived as male-dominated. During my time at AUPP, however, I have witnessed a promising increase in female students pursuing technology-related fields; something of which I am proud to be part of. This transformation has inspired me to motivate other young women to explore their interests in tech, which led me to join the Sisters of Code Ambassador Program.

My academic journey has been enriched by hands-on professional experiences. I began with an internship at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and I am currently interning at the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, where I assist with nationwide initiatives that aimed at raising public awareness on cybersecurity. Between my freshman and junior years, I participated in several national and international competitions. Notably, my team received an Honorable Mention award in the Turing Hackathon Cycle 6 hosted by Techo Startup Center. I was also a finalist in both the Faulkner Business Challenge hosted by Fort Hays State University and the Ending Plastic Pollution in Cambodia Competition organized by UNDP Cambodia. These experiences taught me more than just technical skills; they shaped my mindset regarding leadership, collaboration, and entrepreneurship. Beyond technology, youth empowerment and community engagement are values that resonate deeply with me. Motivated to give back, I have taken on leadership roles in two social initiatives: Youth Sparkathon and Green Sphere. Through these projects, I have worked closely with young people and local communities, creating opportunities for learning, growth, and encouraging positive change.

In addition to my technical and leadership pursuits, I am deeply committed to volunteerism and cultural exchange. I have volunteered with AIESEC in Cambodia, a youth-led nonprofit organization that enabled me to work on practical projects, broaden my worldview, build meaningful connections, and make a lasting impact. Furthermore, I was honored to represent Cambodia at the ASEAN Youth Volunteer Program Malaysia 2024, where I collaborated with peers from across ASEAN nations through two weeks of cultural exchange, community service, and discussions on planetary health.

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

I’m genuinely proud of every small step and milestone I’ve reached because each one carries a special meaning to me. They reflect the commitment, dedication, and passion I’ve poured into everything I do. But if I had to highlight one experience that has profoundly shaped me, it would be leading Youth Sparkathon—a small yet meaningful initiative that left a lasting impact. In July 2024, my team and I organized a competition for high school students in Siem Reap, designed to ignite creativity, cultivate innovation, and instill confidence in youth who often lack access to such opportunities. As someone who has joined—and sometimes failed—in several competitions myself, I’ve come to realize that true success lies not in the outcome, but in the journey. The iterative process of design thinking, the dynamics of teamwork, the thrill of creative exploration, and the growth of communication and pitching skills all hold immense value. That was the spirit we hoped to pass on. Driven by the vision “Igniting Creativity, Sparking Innovation, Delivering Impactful Solutions,” we successfully secured funding from the European Union. It was my first time leading a project from ideation to execution, and while it came with its fair share of challenges, it was also one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. Over the course of the program, we delivered five training sessions, organized group mentoring, and created a space for 40 students to dream boldly and present their ideas. Each team pitched to a panel of judges, and three were selected as winners. Yet, the true success wasn’t defined by awards—it was reflected in the smiles, the excitement, and the confidence we saw in every participant. What fills me with the most pride is knowing that this initiative began as a simple idea and, through teamwork and shared purpose, evolved into something that genuinely empowered others. Youth Sparkathon will always hold a special place in my heart as a testament to the power of belief, action, and impact.

Another milestone I deeply value is being an alumna of the SmartEdu University Student Development Program (USDP) Cohort 5. Back in December 2023, I was selected as one of only 48 participants for this highly competitive11-day intensive bootcamp organized by Smart Axiata. This program stands out as one of the best I’ve ever participated in. We were placed in a high-pressure business simulation, where we took on the roles of C-suite executives, and tasked with solving real-world corporate challenges. The bootcamp was a true test of resilience, patience, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are crucial for any digital leader in today’s fast-paced world. One of the most eye-opening aspects was experiencing the weight of leadership from a CEO’s perspective, gaining firsthand insights into the complexities of steering a company forward. What made the experience truly unforgettable were the sleepless nights, followed by mornings that felt like corporate fire drills—each one bringing unexpected challenges that gave us a real taste of what senior management deals with. But perhaps what really made it special wasn’t just making it through the bootcamp, it was crossing the finish line and joining a strong alumni network. To this day, I’m proud to call myself a SmartEdu USDP graduate and carry forward the lessons I learned.

Finally, a recent highlight that I hold with great pride is being selected as a Cambodian delegate for a prestigious, fully funded conference in Bangkok, Thailand, in March 2025: “Empowering the Digital Future: Skill-Building for the Mekong Delta’s Digital Revolution.” Organized by DCN Global and World Learning, with support from the U.S. Department of State, this event brought together thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers from the Mekong region, the United States, and Europe. I had the privilege of engaging in insightful discussions with industry experts, founders, and fellow delegates, which not only deepened my understanding of regional digital transformation efforts but also allowed me to exchange ideas on the current state of digital transformation and explore the immense potential for cross-border collaboration.

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

Have you ever noticed how life has this quirky way of connecting the dots, where one random event snowballs into a whole chain of unexpected twists? Well, for me, that’s exactly how things went down.

One experience that changed my life was volunteering with AIESEC in Cambodia during my freshman year. Back in high school, I was someone who solely focused on academics. I worked hard to maintain straight As, chased perfect grades, and rarely stepped outside the classroom bubble. I had no real-world experience and little exposure to anything beyond exams. That was shifted when I started university at AUPP and met a friend through a group project, we were randomly assigned to work together by our professor. Shout-out to my buddy, Tim Tempanha. He’s been an amazing friend who encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. He invited me to join competitions and introduced me to AIESEC. I decided to apply without much expectation and, to my surprise, passed the interview. That was the beginning of everything. When asked to choose my preferred functions within AIESEC, I listed Marketing as my first option and Incoming Global Teacher as my second. Unexpectedly, I was placed in my second choice but that twist turned out to be a blessing in disguise. During my time in the Incoming Global Teacher function, I worked with international partners to promote Cambodia and coordinate teaching projects. We focused on bringing exchange participants to rural schools in Cambodia to teach English, helping improve education in underserved areas. Six months later, I was promoted to Manager of the Incoming Global Volunteer team. In this role, I led a team of four awesome individuals. Together, we built partnerships with language schools both in the city and the provinces. Being a part of this function, we welcomed exchange participants from countries like Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Japan, and Indonesia who came to Cambodia to teach and create meaningful impact.

My AIESEC journey was filled with ups and downs, but it was incredibly fulfilling. It opened doors to countless opportunities. It became a hub for networking, where I met inspiring people, formed lasting connections, and learned through real-life experiences. AIESEC was the space where I could fail, grow, and find my voice. It was where theory meets practice, and where I initially stepped into leadership. I owe a lot to the people who guided me along the way, especially my supervisor Ms. Monorom Tim and my team leader Ms. Lylang Te. Their patience, support, and mentorship were invaluable in shaping my journey.

Funny thing is, everything about this story feels like a series of coincidences. I met a friend by chance. He introduced me to something I never expected I’d join. I ended up in a role I didn’t even pick first. Yet those seemingly small and spontaneous moments became turning points that changed my life. And for that, I’m truly grateful.

4. Who is the person you look up to the most? (Parents/Siblings/Seniors/Professors/Celebrities)

When it comes to the people I look up to the most, it’s without a doubt my parents. It’s not just because they raised me, but because they’ve been the pillars of strength, wisdom, and love that have made me into who I am today. Their values, sacrifices, and unwavering support have shaped me in more ways than I can count.

My father is someone who places education above all else. I’ve seen him work tirelessly to ensure our family has everything we need, especially access to quality education. He’s always believed that education is the key to unlocking a world of opportunities, and because of him, I’ve grown up understanding the true value of learning. His strength and determination taught me to work hard, stay focused, and never settle for less than my best. He also raised me to be independent, courageous, and capable of standing on my own. At the same time, my mother has been the heart of our home. She’s the embodiment of kindness, patience, and quiet resilience. She taught me how to be humble, to spread love, and to always carry a kind heart, no matter what life throws my way. From her, I learned the value of understanding, and the kind of strength that doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. While my father ensures we have what we need, my mother makes sure we feel cared for, heard, and loved. She showed me that real strength lies in compassion, and that leading with empathy can change the world around us. If my father gave me the tools to build my future, my mother gave me the soul to live it meaningfully. While my father inspires me to work hard, my mother inspires me to stay grounded and kind. I’m especially grateful for how open-minded my parents are. They’ve never held me back from exploring new paths or following my passions. Instead, they’ve given me the freedom to go out, see the world from a broader perspective, aim high, and strive for growth. Their trust and encouragement have given me the courage to take bold steps, and dream big. They continue to inspire me every single day, and for that, I can’t wait to give back to them in a way they truly deserve.

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

Frankly speaking, I’m not yet where I envision myself to be, and I recognize the road ahead remains long. However, when I pause to reflect on my time at AUPP, I realize just how far I have come from where I once stood. Progress looks different for everyone; each of us pursues unique goals, navigates distinct paths, and encounters a wide range of experiences. For me, the first and most defining step I took was choosing to study at AUPP. I believe in the university’s tagline, “Study Locally, Live Globally.” That simple phrase has continually influenced me. Throughout my journey at AUPP, I have been part of a community that encourages growth, curiosity, and ambition. In this environment, I’m surrounded by passionate professors, dedicated faculty, and talented peers, all of whom have played a key role in helping me expand my horizons.

Another key step I took was learning to say “yes” to opportunities, even when I didn’t feel fully prepared. I’ve come to understand that we rarely know where a single opportunity might lead—and more often than not, one open door leads to another. I try to maintain a positive outlook and embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth. Whenever I take on a task, I commit fully, give it my all, and strive to exceed expectations.

Of course, not every door opened, and not every opportunity came my way. I’ve faced my share of rejection, and I’ll admit—it can be discouraging. But I’ve learned that failure is not a full stop; it is part of the process. When I fall short on the first or even the second attempt, I remind myself that success may be waiting on the third. Sometimes, missing one opportunity means a better one is just around the corner. Patience and resilience have become essential parts of my journey.

Ultimately, it’s the combination of a supportive environment, consistent discipline, and a growth-oriented mindset that has brought me to where I am today and will continue to guide me forward. I’m still growing, still reaching, and still dreaming, but every step I’ve taken at AUPP has transformed me into someone ready to chase that future.

6. What are the happiest moments of your life?

The happiest moments of my life are often rooted in simplicity, yet they carry a depth that no amount of money could buy, like making my parents proud for achieving something I have worked hard for. One such instance was when I earned an A on my Baccalaureate National Exam. The grade itself was rewarding, but what truly elevated the moment was seeing the pride in my parents’ eyes. It was a powerful reminder that my hard work is not solely for personal success, but also to honor the unwavering support and sacrifices of my family.

Another wellspring of happiness comes from being able to uplift others and offer them genuine support, even in quiet and subtle ways. I find deep joy in being present for the people around me, and some of my most cherished memories stem from moments where I contributed to something greater than myself. During Youth Sparkathon, our team received heartfelt feedback from participants who shared that the program had made a real difference in their lives. Many expressed that it helped them recognize their potential and gave them the confidence to take new steps forward. Hearing those reflections and realizing that something we created could inspire such growth filled me with a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. I experienced a similar moment during the Green Sphere project, when one participant told me it had always been her dream to witness how people live on the water. At the end of the program, she personally thanked me for making that dream a reality. Several others also shared their gratitude for the care and effort our team invested in the experience. These encounters remind me that creating meaningful impact does not always require grand gestures. Often, it is the intentional, thoughtful actions that leave the most lasting impression on someone’s heart.

Looking ahead, one of the happiest moments I’m anticipating is graduating from AUPP this May, as part of the Class of 2025. It’s a milestone that holds deep significance for me, and I can’t wait to celebrate it with those who have supported me along the way. What makes this upcoming graduation even more rewarding is that I’ll be sharing the moment with my childhood best friend. From elementary school to secondary, high school, and now university, we’ve grown side by side—navigating life’s challenges and triumphs together. This will mark our third graduation together, and the opportunity to commemorate this chapter of our academic journey with her by my side adds an irreplaceable layer of joy. It’s rare to have someone who has witnessed all of your seasons of growth, and I feel incredibly blessed for that. In the end, the happiest moments of my life are those where love, purpose, and gratitude intersect; moments where I feel seen, connected, and fulfilled.

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

To those who look up to me, my advice is this: embrace the uncertainty and do not be afraid to step into the unknown. If something scares you, that’s often a sign it’s worth pursuing. Even when the outcome is unclear, take the leap. More often than not, what initially feels intimidating turns out to be far better than you expect. In my own journey, the moments that shaped me the most were those I did not anticipate, the risks I took without knowing how things would unfold. Looking back, I’m glad I dared to try, because those decisions led me to a deeper understanding of myself. If I had let fear hold me back, I know I would have regretted it. Therefore, I encourage you to grab every opportunity with confidence and learn to be excited about the unknown instead of fearing it. Whether you succeed or stumble, each step teaches you something. Every day presents a chance to improve yourself, regardless of how small the progress may seem. Trust the timing and trust the process. With consistent effort and perseverance, you will go further than you ever imagined, and your past self will be proud of the person you have become.

It is also important to recognize the value of networking, which is a crucial skill. Whether it is with family, friends, professors, or even acquaintances, the people you meet may one day be the ones who present you with life-changing opportunities. Always remain humble and committed to continuous growth. The more people you meet, the more you will realize how much there is to learn and how much inspiration can be found in the experiences of others.

To all AUPP students, especially freshmen and sophomores, I encourage you to make the most of your time at university. These four years will pass more quickly than you expect. Whatever your goals may be, pursue them with dedication and enthusiasm. This is the time to experiment, to fail, to rise again, and to develop resilience. You’re in a place that supports you, so do not hesitate to reach out, ask questions, seek advice, and make full use of the resources available to you.

Finally, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Tek Ming Ng, Dean of the IT Department and my academic advisor, for his invaluable guidance and continued support since my first year. He has always been my go-to whenever I encountered challenges, generously offering his help with kindness and patience. His mentorship has played a significant role in shaping my academic and personal growth.