Our Story

Rathana’s Childhood

Rathana’s father died from illness when he was nine. Six months later, his mother was shot and killed in front of him. His 18-month-old brother was still depending on him.

Rathana began taking manual jobs so the two of them could survive. As an adult, he became a leather-carving apprentice and gradually learned this ancient Khmer art. The craft allowed him to support himself and his brother, and to help his brother complete his education and become a lawyer.

The experience taught Rathana that immediate help may carry a child through today, but education and a skill they can depend on may truly change their future.

A Home Begins in 2001

After completing an intangible-cultural-heritage exchange with Germany, Rathana returned to Siem Reap. He wanted to create a home for children who had lived through experiences like his own—a place where they could receive an education and learn how to build an independent life.

He sold his home and car and founded Little Angel Orphanage in 2001.

The decision also brought lasting sacrifices. His marriage ended amid his long commitment to the orphanage, and he could spend only about three hours a day with his daughter. Yet when he spoke about these things, he did not place himself at the centre of the story. His concern remained whether the children would be able to build lives of their own after leaving the orphanage.

Over 24 years, Rathana helped hundreds of children through difficult beginnings. At its busiest, the orphanage cared for around 70 children at one time. When Evan and Shirley visited in 2025, around 35 children were still living and learning there.

In that sense, Rathana became a father figure to many of them.

Education and Self-Reliance, Side by Side

The children generally attend school in the morning. After returning to the orphanage, they continue learning Chinese, English and leather carving.

Some language classes are taught by former children of the orphanage. Among those who grew up there, some became teachers, lawyers or guides, while others entered different professions. Some who became teachers chose to return and pass what they had learned to the next generation.

Rathana believes language can help children see a wider world, while a traditional craft can give them a practical way to support themselves. Education, cultural continuity and self-reliance have therefore never been separate ideas at Little Angel Orphanage.

How a Piece of Cowhide Becomes a Khmer Story

Khmer leather carving takes time and patience.

Preparing and cleaning

The hide is first treated with plant ash, then scraped to remove hair and dirt.

Colouring and drying

After colour is applied, the hide is left to dry slowly beneath the roof. This process can take about a year.

Drawing and carving

When the hide is ready, the design is drawn by hand and carved one cut at a time, allowing stories of Khmer history, mythology, family and daily life to emerge.

The finished works are intricate and expressive, but Rathana has not turned the orphanage into a workshop driven by output or profit. He wants the children to learn a skill that can support their lives, rather than work for the sake of production.

Rathana helps safeguard the children’s earnings. Part is reserved for their future university education, while part supports the orphanage’s daily operation. This learning and work normally continues every day.

What He Worries About Most

Rathana’s greatest concern is not his own life.

He once asked, “When I grow old, will anyone still remember this place and continue helping these children?”

His concern is about both the orphanage and the future of Khmer leather carving. Yet when he sees former children become teachers, lawyers and guides—and sees some return to teach younger children—he can also see that the work no longer depends on him alone.