Cambodia & Journey: Eva Berlinson came for an internship; she stayed for a country

She arrived in Cambodia out of curiosity, “without really knowing the country,” as she says herself. A few years later, Eva sits on the board of French Tech Phnom Penh, leads CSR and cultural projects within a major Cambodian conglomerate, and is preparing to represent the Francophone tech ecosystem at the 2026 Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh.

Eva Berlinson at a UNICEF event

Between communication, cultural engagement, and the cello, a portrait of an expatriate who has made movement her method.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

My name is Eva. What defines me best is probably my curiosity and my taste for new challenges. I like learning, exploring, and stepping خارج my comfort zone. I grew up in a very artistic environment, strongly influenced by my mother, who is both very curious and an artist. Music has always been part of my life: I have played the cello since childhood, in orchestras and chamber music, and today I play purely for pleasure.

Tell us about your academic background

From an early age, I developed a strong sensitivity to culture, particularly through cinema and theater classes. I then pursued a Master’s degree in communication and marketing in Paris. Later, once settled in Cambodia, I wanted to deepen my understanding of the local context and resumed my studies alongside my professional activity, preparing a double Master’s degree between the Royal University of Law and Economics and Lyon Lumière 2, in Law, Economics, and Management, with a specialization in social and solidarity economy.

At a Green Oasis event

Tell us about your professional beginnings

My first experiences were in communication agencies, with roles in marketing and event organization, which gave me a taste for hands-on work and interaction. I then had the opportunity to live in Amsterdam, working with a leading digital fitness company, which allowed me to grow in an international and innovative environment. Later, I completed my final internship in Cambodia, in a web agency and IT consulting. At the time, I did not know the country, but I decided to take the leap out of curiosity and a desire to discover. This experience was decisive and quickly made me want to settle there.

Tell us about your relationship with Cambodia

From the moment I arrived, I was fascinated by Phnom Penh, its constant energy, and its rapid development. I also developed a genuine interest in the country’s history, particularly the period of the Khmer Empire. Cambodia is a country that leaves no one indifferent: it has incredible cultural, human, and historical richness. It is this blend of modernity and heritage that deeply connected me to it.

How did you come to join French Tech in Cambodia?

I became a member of French Tech Phnom Penh as soon as I arrived, in February 2023. I immediately connected with the energy of the community and the desire to bring together tech players in a country where everything moves very fast. Gradually, I became more involved, and in August 2024 I joined the board. Today, I contribute to communication, event organization, and public relations. I have also had the opportunity to represent French Tech Phnom Penh at international events in Paris, particularly at Station F during the FrancoTech Forum, as part of the 19th Francophonie Summit in 2024.

What are your ambitions within this organization, and what do you expect from it?

Through the contacts I have developed in my professional activity, I would like to help strengthen connections between different stakeholders. My goal is to facilitate exchanges between French and Cambodian institutions, as well as between public, private, professional, and educational sectors.

Cambodia is full of talent, especially among young entrepreneurs who are developing very promising projects. I would like to create more synergies between local and international actors to support the growth of the tech ecosystem. I strongly believe in the power of connections and collaboration.

In this dynamic, one project is particularly close to my heart and one I am eagerly anticipating: the French Tech pavilion at FrancoTech, organized as part of the Francophonie Summit in November 2026 in Phnom Penh. It is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the tech ecosystem and create concrete bridges between local talent and the international community.

Describe your professional activities

I have been working for three years at OCIC (Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation), a Cambodian conglomerate involved in the country’s development. I started in digital marketing and communication before gradually expanding my role to include CSR initiatives, partnerships, and cultural projects. My work covers the entire project cycle, from design to implementation, through to communication and follow-up. It is an extremely stimulating environment where the impact is tangible.

Describe one of your projects

I am fortunate to work on projects that I truly enjoy, whether institutional—such as establishing partnerships—or more cultural and artistic. Recently, I participated in organizing a temporary exhibition of Khmer artifacts that had just been repatriated to Cambodia and were presented to the public for the first time.

I was involved in the organization, communication, and events related to the exhibition, including a launch during a concert, followed by a closing event featuring a panel discussion and a film screening.

Earlier, at the end of last year, I also had the opportunity to create and develop an exhibition space, including a main exhibition and two temporary exhibitions focused on perspectives on Cambodia, the environment, and women’s health. Seeing these projects come to life and impact the community is particularly motivating.

What do you do outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy continuing to learn and explore. I use my free time to discover the region, travel whenever possible, and immerse myself in local culture and gastronomy. Each outing is an opportunity to learn a bit more about Cambodia and its neighbors, enriching both my personal curiosity and my professional perspective.

What do you like most and least about Cambodia?

What I like most is the country’s energy and dynamism, especially in the capital, which never sleeps. There is a real sense of transformation and creation. I also really appreciate the kindness of the people. From the moment you arrive, you feel very welcome. What I like a bit less is sometimes the fast pace, which leaves little room for rest—but that is also what makes life here so unique.