Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sophany Sor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Sophany, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
For me, success begins with deeply understanding myself — knowing who I am, what I believe in, and what I want to create in this world. Before we can face external challenges, we must first conquer our own doubts and fears.
Once we are clear within ourselves, no outside opinion can truly shake us. Often, the obstacles we face are shaped by the expectations or judgments of others — their experiences, their limitations. But in the end, only we can define our path. When we stand firmly in our truth, even if we’re the only one in the room who looks or thinks like us, we still belong. We create space for others simply by being ourselves, unapologetically and with purpose.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My name is Sophany Sor. I’m an art teacher, the General Manager of Colors of Cambodia, and a contemporary Cambodian woman artist. For over than 10 years, I’ve dedicated my life to both creating art and helping young Cambodians discover their own artistic voices.
As a teacher, I focus on realism, beginning with the fundamentals. On the first day of class, I teach students how to see — how to break down objects into shapes, understand light and shadow, and control their hands. I always start with basic materials like pencils and paper to show them that skill and patience matter more than expensive tools. Once they master the basics, they can create powerful work no matter what materials they use.
Teaching isn’t just about technique — it’s about mentorship. I help my students see a future for themselves, not just as artists, but as thoughtful, capable individuals in society. What brings me the greatest joy is seeing former students become art teachers and successful artists themselves. That’s when I know the work is making a real impact.
At Colors of Cambodia, we also use art to support rural communities. Art has helped change old mindsets — where once it was seen as unimportant, now it is understood as a meaningful path for education, expression, and even opportunity. Students now look forward to art class — it gives them a future to imagine.
My own journey with art began as a child, drawing alongside my twin sister. Though I earned a degree in finance and banking, my heart was always with art. In 2009, I began my formal studies at Colors of Cambodia, which became the foundation of my life’s work.
My paintings explore femininity, the subconscious, and the emotional landscapes we carry inside us — especially as women. For me, art is a space beyond words, where identity, memory, and emotion come together. My work is both personal and collective, rooted in my Khmer heritage but reaching outward to connect with others.
As a Khmer artist, I believe our stories belong on the global stage. We carry deep history and rich culture, and I’m proud to be part of a new wave of Cambodian artists bridging tradition with contemporary vision.
You can find my artwork at both The River Gallery and Colors of Cambodia in Siem Reap. The River Gallery, established in 2023, hosts a vibrant community of artists — many of whom began their journeys through Colors of Cambodia — alongside internationally recognized names.
Colors of Cambodia began in 1999, bringing art education to rural schools. In 2003, we opened our own school and gallery in Siem Reap, where we continue to offer free art education to children and youth. Here, students of all ages learn not just how to draw, but how to express themselves and develop their unique creative voice.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Whatever you choose to do — whether it’s art, business, or any other path — you must be clear about your purpose. Know why you’re doing it. When you’re clear, you’re less likely to be distracted or discouraged by the noise around you.
Second is responsibility. It means showing up fully, staying committed even when things get hard, and being accountable to yourself and others. Your work reflects who you are — so take care of it.
Finally, do everything with love. When you care deeply about what you do, people can feel it. It creates energy and opportunities that naturally flow back to you.
My advice to anyone starting out: don’t be afraid to fail. Don’t give up too easily. Every fall teaches you something. Just like a child learning to walk — falling isn’t failure, it’s part of the process. Get up. Keep going. Trust yourself
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
The most important person in helping me overcome challenges and grow is myself.
In the end, everything we do—whether it’s learning, working, or creating—is for our own growth. That’s why only we can truly help ourselves. While support from others can guide and inspire us, the strength to move forward must come from within.
Before taking any step, it’s important to plan our life’s path with intention. We must learn to listen to others, reflect deeply, and think carefully before acting. Challenges are part of life—some small, some overwhelming—but every obstacle carries a lesson. What matters most is how we face those challenges and how we choose to respond.
When we walk a path with clarity and purpose, even when we stumble, the fall hurts less. And if we keep moving—whether slowly or quickly—we continue to grow. Sometimes, the hardest road leads to the most beautiful destination. But if we walk a little, then stop, and constantly change direction, we may never truly know which path was meant for us.
So, I’ve learned that resilience, self-awareness, and continuous effort are key. Because at the heart of every journey is the self—the only one who walks every step of the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://g.co/kgs/dtP37Cm https://g.co/kgs/DKAQPqt
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorsofcambodia2003?igsh=MWhhMWY5MjlybG9iNg== https://www.instagram.com/the_rivergallery?igsh=NXRrY25hYWE0bDFq
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16hXctdKgV/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/16X3UFNqic/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/16U6rZifxL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
All images by Sophany Sor
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
