WHO WE ARE
CEDO (Cambodian Education and Development Organization) is a local non-profit organization providing personal and professional development training to rural students in Siem Reap, Cambodia. We are a team led by local Cambodians dedicated to helping individuals identify their dreams and find pathways to success. Our program relies on the support of generous individuals like you to provide scholarships for Cambodian students from underprivileged backgrounds. Your contribution can make a significant impact in transforming lives and shaping a brighter future for these students.
Youchheng Uch
CEDO Director
Dennis Ondek
Leader Educator
Our mission is to help break the cycle of poverty in Cambodia by providing impoverished young Cambodians, who have completed high school, with access to higher education. This enables them to pursue their aspirations and make meaningful contributions to the sustainable development of their communities and the country as a whole.
YOUCHHENG UCH
Youchheng Uch is the Executive Director of the Cambodian Education and Development Organization (CEDO), where he has provided dedicated leadership for over a decade. With over 20 years of experience in education, community development, and non-profit management, he brings deep expertise in project implementation, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. Under his leadership, CEDO has expanded its scholarship and support programs for underprivileged youth in Siem Reap, fostering access to higher education and vocational opportunities. Mr. Uch’s career includes prior roles with Friends International and PROGETO CONTINENTI, where he managed complex development projects focused on youth employment, social protection, and capacity building. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and is pursuing a Law degree. Known for his integrity, commitment, and collaborative leadership style, Mr. Uch continues to champion inclusive, community-driven development across Cambodia.
DENNIS ONDEK
Dennis Ondek, affectionately known as "Grandpa" by students, is a seasoned English teacher from the U.S. He began volunteering with CEDO in August 2019, developing programs for beginner to pre-intermediate students. He managed a team of international volunteers, providing quality language practice until COVID-19 led him to return to the U.S. in 2021. In February 2024, "Grandpa" returned to Cambodia to focus on the program again. With a background in business and counseling, Dennis retired from social work in 2011 and pursued his passion for Buddhist culture in Asia. He’s taught English in Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand, and believes fluency in English opens doors for students. He’s proud to see many of his students succeed in their careers or continue their studies abroad. Dennis says, "I don’t teach English, I teach confidence," which empowers his students to change their lives
RITA & NEWTON PONTES
In 2024, we had the opportunity to visit Cambodia and spend time with the Cambodia Education Development Organization (CEDO). During our stay, we were deeply moved by the team's dedication and the students' resilience. What started as a short visit quickly turned into a lifelong connection.
Rita, a graphic designer and early childhood educator, has supported CEDO by helping build and maintain their online presence, ensuring their story and impact are clearly seen worldwide. She also taught English during her visit, sharing skills and encouragement with the students.
Newton focused on setting up multimedia systems in the classrooms, helping create a more interactive learning environment. He continues to support CEDO by building relationships with donors, sponsors, and partners who believe in the power of education to change lives.
We left Cambodia with full hearts and a shared commitment to stand alongside CEDO in their mission to build a brighter future for Cambodia’s next generation. It’s an honor to be part of this journey.