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Cambodian photographer Sophal Neak has captured an evocative image of Chan Kimcheng, a villager from Koh Kong province, swimming with a natural elegance reflective of a lifetime spent by the water. Born into a fishing family, Kimcheng’s fluid movements in the water speak to her deep connection with her environment.
Kimcheng is part of a group of women from the fishing community of Trapaeng Pris who actively defend their communal lands and fragile ecosystems. These women conduct regular patrols along the land’s borders to resist intrusions from private landowners, illegal loggers, and fishers. Their efforts also confront environmental threats exacerbated by the climate crisis, which has increased the risk of forest fires in the region. Once home to 50 freshwater ponds that provided drinking water, food, and livelihoods, only one remains intact, as the others were destroyed to make way for private development.
The ponds supported diverse wildlife, including snakes, turtles, and Kork water birds, and locals traditionally harvested fish, honey, and wild plants such as Jorjoch, as well as mushrooms. Kimcheng highlighted the unique value of their land, stating, “It is rare to find collectively owned land with such rich natural resources. We must protect this place for future generations.” She, alongside other women leaders and community committees, is striving to obtain an official land certificate to clearly establish their territory’s boundaries.
Photographer Neak noted Kimcheng’s profound affinity for the water, sharing that “she feels safer in the water than on the land.” In the image, Kimcheng swims in the sole remaining pond, accompanied by fellow activist Yung Chin. Neak recounted Kimcheng’s words: “When she floats in the water, she feels like she’s free.” Despite the challenges and risks—even from societal expectations that limit women’s roles—Kimcheng and her colleagues persist. Yung Chin expressed how her involvement has strengthened her confidence, explaining that she was once fearful of speaking up but now engages assertively with senior officials. Neak praised their commitment, calling them “real heroes” whose protection of this land is vital to its survival. This photograph is featured in the Women by Women exhibition by ActionAid, which took place at London’s Gallery@Oxo
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