Remembering Nuon Phaly on International Women’s Day

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Matt Baker had the pleasure of speaking with family friend Claire, his Dad and a group of Claire’s friends about the remarkable life of Nuon Phaly.

Nuon Phaly survived the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge and, while living in a refugee camp, established the Khmer People’s Depression Relief Centre to support traumatised women and children who had endured unimaginable hardship.

With extraordinary courage and determination, she later led women and children back to Phnom Penh and went on to establish the Future Light Organization (FLO).

More than 30 years later, FLO continues to support vulnerable Cambodian children, providing a safe home, education and the opportunity for a better future.

Today, FLO is led by Nuon Phaly’s son, Nuon Sothero, together with a dedicated team who continue her legacy.

International Women’s Day provided a fitting opportunity to recognise Nuon Phaly’s courage, determination and the lasting impact of the work she began.