Meng Srean Pheakdey is a second-year student at the University of Portland, majoring in Electrical Engineering. She is also a co-founder, reporter, activity planner, and project manager for Beneath the Sea, a funded project that raises awareness about marine life conservation, in collaboration with Marine Conservation Cambodia. The project focuses on critical environmental issues affecting the sea.
Srean grew up on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, where, with the support and encouragement of her parents, she prioritized her education. Her hard work paid off when she graduated with stellar grades and scored 98.347 on the Cambodian National Exam.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Srean has continued to grow as a leader. She serves as the Treasurer of the International Club and works as a Student Ambassador at the University of Portland. Before college, she initiated and led a community service project supporting rural indigenous students. This project provided school supplies, donated 300 books, and encouraged the students to pursue higher education.
Srean’s volunteer work also includes contributing to the National Speak Dating program, helping students from rural provinces improve their English skills. She also volunteered at TEDxRUPP, initially as a speaker coordinator, assisting international and national speakers with their preparations, and later emceeing TEDxRUPP 2022.
Eager to challenge herself both academically and socially, Srean looks forward to furthering her education and leadership development. She aspires to inspire young women and girls in Cambodia to pursue engineering and higher education, regardless of their socio-economic background or gender.