1. Could you tell us about yourself?
My name is Ngor Longwei, and I am currently pursuing a double major scholarship student in Information Technology Management at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) and Computer Science at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). With a strong interest in both technology and business, my academic path is focused on merging technical skills with strategic business insights. I aim to leverage this combination to drive innovation and provide impactful solutions in the future.
I am deeply intrigued by the intersection of technology and business, which has motivated me to participate in various competitions, and fortunately won a few, and explore career opportunities that blend these two fields. Outside of academics, I have a passion for sports, particularly volleyball, where I was fortunate to be the school champion in 2023, and badminton, which I enjoy for relaxation. Additionally, dancing is an important part of my life, offering a creative outlet that helps me maintain a balanced lifestyle.
In addition to my studies, I have embraced leadership opportunities, including serving as a junior student representative in the student government’s 9th mandate, where I advocated for student interests. I am also an active participant in my university’s mentorship program, where I support juniors in their academic and social development. Moreover, I mentor high school students in workshops, teaching them pitching techniques and preparing them for hackathon-style competitions, helping them develop skills that will serve them in the future.
Although my academic focus is in Information Technology, I have gained more professional experience in business, particularly in marketing, than in IT. I’m currently working as a student employee in the AUPP marketing department, and I also do freelance IT work in my free time. This blend of technical and business experience has provided me with a unique perspective, allowing me to approach challenges with a comprehensive understanding of both areas and apply strategic thinking to technological solutions.
2. Could you tell us about the achievements you are most proud of?
I am proud to have been recognized for my leadership and performance in several prestigious programs. I was the Winner of the ASEAN China India Youth Leadership Summit (ACIYLES) 2023 Cambodia Round and went on to be a Grand Finalist in Singapore. Additionally, I was named one of the Top 8 Best Individual Performers in the SmartEdu University Student Development Program (USDP) and secured a position as one of the Top 2 teams in the Korean-Cambodia University Student Exchange Program with Hanyang University.
Each competition presented unique challenges, and the experiences were valuable learning opportunities. During the ACIYLS Global Round, I had to collaborate with individuals from different countries, each with varying work cultures. Initially, this was difficult because some team members were less committed, while I am highly competitive and driven to complete tasks quickly. This experience taught me about the importance of adaptability and helped me better understand cultural differences in work styles. It also broadened my ability to collaborate more effectively with diverse teams in the future.
The USDP was an 11-day intensive boot camp designed to simulate real-world working conditions, where we were placed in the shoes of C-suite executives and had to solve complex problems under pressure. While some described the experience as overwhelming, I found it incredibly rewarding. It strengthened my ability to think critically, work as part of a team, and manage stress. This immersive experience prepared me to face any challenge fearlessly and pushed me to continuously improve.
These experiences have not only enhanced my personal growth but have also enabled me to help others. I learned to stay calm under pressure, lead diverse teams, and approach problems with a strategic mindset. These lessons in leadership and teamwork are not only valuable in competitions but also in real-life scenarios. After each of these programs, I was able to pass on my knowledge and mentor my juniors, ensuring that the lessons I learned continued to benefit my peers and the wider community. These opportunities have prepared me to take on future challenges with greater confidence and a broader perspective.
Through these experiences, I’ve developed a more global mindset, improved my ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, and refined my leadership and problem-solving skills. The lessons I’ve learned from these intense programs have made me more resilient, adaptable, and capable of handling high-pressure situations. These qualities have not only shaped my personal growth but have also prepared me to be a better leader, mentor, and professional in the future.
3. Could you tell us about one thing or experience you encountered that changed your life?
Coming to AUPP was truly a transformative experience for me. It wasn’t just about transitioning to university life; it was stepping into a world of new opportunities, diverse environments, and incredible people. In high school, my world revolved around the classroom, a small group of friends, and studies. However, at AUPP, I found myself interacting with students from diverse backgrounds, including my seniors, who became mentors and collaborators. AUPP didn’t just offer education; it opened doors for me to explore my interests and passions.
One of the most defining moments was participating in the Asia Pacific Youth Exchange with Hanyang University. This cultural exchange program brought together students from across the region to immerse ourselves in various industries and solve real-world problems. Though I didn’t win, the experience was invaluable—it allowed me to form connections, including my incredible teammates from Team Erben, who have supported and inspired me ever since. It also ignited my passion for competitions, setting the stage for my continued journey into challenges and growth.
Adjusting to a new environment and pushing beyond my comfort zone was not easy. Collaborating with individuals from different cultures and tackling unfamiliar problems was initially overwhelming. The experience taught me resilience, the value of collaboration, and the importance of seeking out opportunities. Whether it was balancing academics with extracurriculars or working in high-pressure situations during the exchange program, I learned to adapt, persevere, and grow through each challenge.
These experiences shaped me in profound ways. I discovered the power of stepping out of my comfort zone and seeking out opportunities that aligned with my passions. From joining competitions to participating in sports like volleyball, badminton, and dancing, my time at AUPP has been about growth—both academically and personally. I’ve learned that opportunities come to those who actively seek them, and each step forward is a chance to see the world through a new lens.
This journey has not only shaped my perspective but also solidified my ambitions. AUPP became the bridge to a broader world, allowing me to connect with people, explore industries, and unlock potential I never knew I had. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue leveraging these experiences to take on greater challenges, build meaningful connections, and make a positive impact in everything I pursue.
4. Who is the person you look up to the most?
The people I admire most in my life are my parents. They have been my unwavering source of support, continuously encouraging me in my educational journey and ensuring I stay aligned with my goals. While my focus often shifts to my passions, such as sports and competitions, they are the ones who gently guide me back on track, reminding me of the bigger picture. Despite their busy schedules, working hard every day, our family dinners are filled with laughter and valuable life lessons. Through these moments, I’ve come to deeply appreciate their strong work ethic and determination. Even as they approach retirement, they continue to learn and improve themselves—a quality I deeply admire.
Beyond my parents, I draw inspiration from those around me who are where I aspire to be—business owners, athletes, and other successful individuals. I actively seek opportunities to connect with them and learn from their journeys. Their dedication and achievements remind me to stay committed to my own growth and ambitions.
My parents’ ability to persevere through hardships and maintain a relentless drive to improve themselves has shaped my understanding of what it means to work hard and stay grounded. Similarly, the people I look up to in various fields inspire me with their passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Their success stories are not just motivating but also serve as a roadmap for my own aspirations.
From my parents, I’ve learned the importance of discipline, humility, and continuous self-improvement. They’ve given me the privilege of focusing solely on my education, and I strive to honor their sacrifices by making the most of every opportunity. From the business owners and athletes I admire, I’ve adopted the mindset of seeking continuous growth and embracing challenges as stepping stones to success.
By surrounding myself with role models and drawing inspiration from everyone doing well in their respective fields, I’ve developed a broader perspective on success. Rather than idolizing one individual, I celebrate the achievements of many, using their experiences as fuel to push myself forward in both my personal and professional journey.
5. What are the steps you took that led you to where you are right now?
The key to getting where I am today lies in a simple philosophy: “try first, think about it later.” I’ve learned that waiting too long to act often traps you in a cycle of overthinking, leaving you stuck without progress. Taking small, bold steps forward—regardless of the fear of failure—can lead to incredible opportunities and success.
One defining moment for me was the summer I made the brave decision to drop my courses and join the Asia Pacific Youth Exchange Program. This single step opened doors to new connections and career opportunities, setting the stage for many of the exciting experiences I’ve had at university. Similarly, joining various sports clubs not only allowed me to explore my interests in volleyball and badminton but also helped me bond with like-minded peers and maintain a healthy balance of mind and body.
Balancing so many commitments—competitions, clubs, academics, and personal growth—wasn’t always easy. At times, it felt overwhelming, but because I genuinely enjoyed what I was doing, the challenges never seemed insurmountable. When people ask how I manage my time, I often say, “I just do it first and figure out the balance later.” Over time, though, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries and not overloading myself to maintain a healthy balance.
Through trial and error, I discovered the value of embracing opportunities, even when the outcome is uncertain. Every experience—whether a success or a failure—has taught me something valuable about myself, my passions, and my limits. These steps have not only helped me grow as a person but also prepared me to take on challenges fearlessly and with confidence.
This journey has shown me that bold decisions and taking action are the catalysts for personal and professional growth, and I carry that mindset with me as I continue to pursue new opportunities.
6. What are the happiest moments of your life?
Happiness for me often comes from moments of triumph and personal growth. One of the most joyous occasions was passing my high school national exam with the highest grade possible—Grade A. Sharing this success with my family and seeing their pride made the celebration truly special. That joy deepened when I earned multiple scholarships to universities, ultimately securing the top spot in a competitive selection process among hundreds of applicants to join AUPP.
Another unforgettable memory was during the school volleyball tournament, where my team made a remarkable comeback in the final set, clinching a hard-fought victory with a score of 27-25. The months of intense training, countless bruises, and even moments of doubt were all worth it when the final whistle blew. It was a moment that cemented my belief in perseverance and the power of teamwork.
Winning the ASEAN-China-India Youth Leadership Summit (ACIYLS) 2023 Cambodia Round was another defining moment. Not only did it reward me with a brand-new bike and a trip to the grand finals in Singapore, but it also broadened my horizons and sharpened my skills. Being named one of the Top 8 Best Individual Performers in the SmartEdu University Student Development Program was equally exhilarating, as it led to an enriching internship at Smart Axiata and an exciting overseas trip.
These milestones are not just memories; they serve as a constant source of inspiration. They remind me of the rewards of hard work and motivate me to push my limits further, continuously improving myself and striving for even greater achievements.
7. Is there any advice to the people that look up to you?
I’m not sure if I’m worthy of being looked up to, but I know there are people who reach out to me for guidance. While I don’t see myself as particularly wise or successful, I believe in sharing what I know to help others avoid the mistakes I’ve made. My approach to life isn’t perfect, and my habits aren’t ideal, but I’ve learned that growth comes from trial, error, and persistence.
As the famous Nike slogan says, “Just do it.” You miss every shot you don’t take, and opportunities often don’t wait for perfect timing or plans. In my journey, I’ve learned to treat every chance as if it could change my life. Joining competitions, taking on leadership roles, or even trying out a new sport has taught me invaluable lessons about seizing the moment and figuring things out along the way.
Criticism has been part of my journey, but I’ve chosen to unapologetically stay true to myself. I believe no one envies someone who’s behind them; the key is to stay disciplined, consistent, and focused on your goals. Building meaningful connections has also been crucial—friends who inspire and push you can play a significant role in your success. Surround yourself with those who motivate you, and you’ll find yourself growing alongside them.
I wasn’t always this confident. In high school, I was timid and often the target of bullying. But through experiences—whether competing, playing sports, taking on jobs, or leading teams—I’ve gained resilience and self-assurance. These moments have shaped me, and I’ve learned never to let anyone doubt my worth.
Lastly, I believe in living life at your own pace. Comparing yourself to others can be a tool for growth, but it shouldn’t discourage you. I’m far from where I want to be, but I aim for the stars, hoping to land somewhere extraordinary. Most importantly, I’ve learned to find happiness in the process and enjoy the journey, because success is not just a destination—it’s how you grow along the way.