Cambodia & Dreams in Motion: How beauty restores strength and hope to the women of Boeung Trabek

Four determined Cambodian women from the Boeung Trabek slum in Phnom Penh beautifully tell a story of empowerment and resilience through a profession that is often underestimated: hairdressing and beauty care.

Armed with shampoo, make-up brushes and manicure products, they are rebuilding their future step by step, with grace, skill and unwavering determination.

This project is being rolled out through an exceptional vocational training programme supported by Education for Life, an initiative of Intercoiffure Suisse — a renowned international hairdressing network — and implemented on the ground in Cambodia through the passionate commitment of Shanty Town Spirit, an organisation founded by Their Royal Highnesses Prince Norodom Nari and Princess Norodom Ermine. The expertise and mentoring of renowned stylists from the Arya Vong Kim salon complete this unique initiative.

Over several intensive weeks, these women learned the basics: professional shampooing, styling, manicures, pedicures, make-up and head massage. But beyond technical skills, the programme offered them much more: a rediscovery of their dignity, renewed self-esteem and, above all, tangible hope for a better future.

In a neighbourhood where job opportunities remain scarce and precarious, these skills now open the doors to local, concrete and sustainable economic independence. Each new technique mastered is a step towards autonomy and an example that shines brightly in their community.

The training does not stop there. Armed with their new skills, these women are preparing to expand their expertise with upcoming modules on hair cutting and colouring, enabling them to further broaden their range of services

This evolution means greater social impact: better serving the community, creating more jobs and increasing opportunities for mutual support. Every treatment provided, whether it is a soothing massage or a simple manicure, becomes an act of care, a gesture of attention that transforms the ordinary into a precious moment.

The strength of this project lies in the transmission of a spirit of solidarity and female empowerment, and this dynamic is part of a broader tradition that could be called the spirit of working-class neighbourhoods, where survival meets dignity and collective dreams take shape in everyday gestures.

Shanty Town Spirit: A philosophy of hope rooted in the community

The Shanty Town Spirit initiative is not limited to technical training. It carries a deeper vision of female empowerment in precarious neighbourhoods. Based on the values of solidarity and mutual aid, this movement acts as a social catalyst that encourages initiative, confidence and self-respect.

According to sociological studies on urban slums, micro-entrepreneurship and training programmes in care and beauty professions are among the most effective ways of contributing to the social and economic reintegration of women.

This not only improves their immediate income but also strengthens their role in the family and community. By combining technical skills and personal development, these training programmes promote long-term stability and greater social recognition.

Furthermore, the cultural and social dimension of care is fundamental: in many societies, beauty and self-care are closely linked to identity formation. Being able to offer these moments to oneself or to others nurtures a sense of community and repairs social bonds that are sometimes weakened by poverty.

An example to follow

Around the world, many programmes see training in beauty professions as an effective strategy for combating female poverty, particularly in South-East Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Some NGOs have reported that the confidence gained during these training courses has a snowball effect: beneficiaries spontaneously become mentors, creating networks of mutual support and inspiration among women.

This project, led by Shanty Town Spirit with support from Intercoiffure Suisse and Education for Life, is much more than just technical training. It is a celebration of courage, solidarity and human potential.

Through beauty, it is a hand extended towards a future of freedom, trust and dignity — a powerful message of hope for Boeung Trabek and beyond.

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