In Srea Sronuk village of Stung Treng province, Mrs. Don Chorvy stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and advocacy. Following the resettlement of her community due to the Srea Pok III hydropower dam, she emerged as a key voice for those grappling with the aftermath of large-scale development.

Resettlement brought profound disruption. Families faced inadequate housing, school closures, teacher shortages, and limited access to health services. The community also lost forested areas, vital wildlife habitats, and parts of their ancestral culture. Fishing became difficult due to sedimentation and degraded water quality, while changes in the river’s regime led to declines in fish species. These shifts fractured community unity and deepened economic insecurity.

Despite these hardships, Mrs. Chorvy transformed adversity into action. With support from My Village Organization (MVi) and other networks, she received capacity-building and technical training that enhanced her leadership skills. Her advocacy gained national visibility when, in December 2024, she participated in a national forum to share lived experiences of displaced women and families along the Sesan River.

Her testimony resonated. By clearly articulating the gendered impacts of resettlement, Mrs. Chorvy encouraged dialogue among stakeholders and authorities. As a result, several key concerns raised by the community—particularly relating to education, livelihoods, and cultural preservation—received renewed attention and commitments for redress.

Today, Mrs. Chorvy’s transformation from a displaced villager to an influential community leader exemplifies the power of grassroots leadership in shaping equitable development. Her journey demonstrates the importance of giving women space, support, and platforms to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes—especially in the context of development projects that fundamentally alter lives. Her voice continues to guide Srea Sronuk toward a more inclusive and resilient future.