Khmer star Shin Yubin, first national ambassador of UNICEF in Cambodia
- La Rédaction
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
UNICEF Cambodia has chosen to entrust its first national ambassadorship to one of the country’s most popular figures. The appointment of Shin Yubin, a renowned actress and singer, marks a turning point in the advocacy strategy of the UN organization in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
A ceremony under the sign of hope
On the occasion of International Children’s Day, UNICEF Cambodia officially announced the appointment of Shin Yubin as National Ambassador — a first in the organization’s history in the country. The announcement was made during a high-level event titled “Together for Every Child: From Healing to Hope,” chaired by the First Lady, Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet.
The ceremony on June 1 brought together government representatives, development partners, artists, and representatives of Cambodian youth, in a strong symbolic momentum at a time when humanitarian needs remain pressing.
The First Lady took the opportunity to emphasize that child protection is a shared responsibility. She urged artists, content creators, and public figures to use their platforms to raise awareness about child protection, education, and mental health, stressing that children need not only material support but also compassion, guidance, and positive role models, especially in an increasingly digital world.
Shin Yubin, from the stage to humanitarian action
Shin Yubin is a Cambodian actress whose fame truly took off after her victory in the Freshie Girls & Boys talent competition in 2014, which opened the doors to her first leading role in a television series. Since then, she has built a solid career in both film and television, with several productions acclaimed by the public. She has also gained international recognition by representing Cambodia at the Cannes Film Festival.
But beyond the spotlight, Shin Yubin had already been actively engaged with UNICEF Cambodia well before this official appointment, mobilizing during the recent border crisis to provide aid and support to the most vulnerable children in conflict-affected provinces.
Aware of the weight of this new role, the actress expressed clear determination during the ceremony.
“It is a great honor for me to take on this responsibility on International Children’s Day. I have met children, parents, and families whose lives have been disrupted by the crisis, and I have seen how timely support can make a difference. Every child has the right to learn in a safe school, access quality healthcare, and grow up free from violence. I commit to using my voice to encourage solidarity with those who need it most,” she stated.
In her acceptance speech, she described this appointment not as an honor, but as a humanitarian mission and a moral responsibility.
An urgency beyond symbolism
While Shin Yubin’s appointment carries strong symbolic significance, it comes in the context of a very real humanitarian crisis. UNICEF Cambodia has warned of a funding gap of more than $2.1 million, which could jeopardize efforts to support children and families affected by the recent displacement crisis along the Cambodian border.
Will Parks, UNICEF Representative in Cambodia, stressed that thousands of children and families continue to face serious difficulties, even after returning home, still struggling with trauma, economic losses, and instability.
The First Lady solemnly recalled that the consequences of recent conflicts have led many Cambodian children to be separated from their families, lose their homes, schools, and access to essential public services — disruptions that severely compromise their future.
The role of UNICEF national ambassadors
UNICEF’s regional and national ambassadors are among the organization’s most recognizable faces. Coming from the worlds of art, music, film, or sports, they play a central role in drawing attention to the challenges faced by children worldwide. As volunteers, they dedicate their time to raising awareness and mobilizing support, helping UNICEF reach the most disadvantaged children and adolescents.
By entrusting this role to Shin Yubin, UNICEF Cambodia is choosing not only a popular figure but also a personality already engaged on the ground — a choice that says much about the seriousness of the moment and the hope placed in the power of culture to reach hearts where official statements do not always succeed.
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