Sao Kosal’s journey is one of perseverance and growth – a story that truly embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptability. She began her career at HEINEKEN Cambodia as a beer promoter, engaging consumers with the latest brand promotions. Over the years, she has taken on new roles and today she is a Sales Administration Assistant, playing a vital role in ensuring the company’s sales and distribution operate smoothly.

Kosal talks about her remarkable journey in a special video to commemorate the occasion. Watch Kosal’s story on HEINEKEN Cambodia’s Facebook page. 

Born into a family of five siblings and having lost her mother at a young age, Kosal took on the responsibility of supporting her family financially alongside her father. Despite her dreams of completing her education, financial constraints forced her to drop out of high school.

After several years, Kosal found work as a waitress at a restaurant in Phnom Penh. There, she was inspired by the determination of several beer promoters. There were doubts at first about whether this would be the right job. Yet with courage, she told herself and her family, “If I don’t try, I’ll never know.” 

And so began her journey with HEINEKEN Cambodia.

She shares, “When I started back in 1998, it was a demanding job, requiring long hours and a steadfast smile. There were times I felt exhausted from working late but I found the work of selling our brands to consumers motivating and fulfilling.”

Although society’s perceptions of beer promoters were not always kind, Kosal’s unwavering belief in the integrity of her work kept her focused. 

“At the end of the day, I am proud that my work was honest and meaningful,” she recalls.

Her perseverance led her to a more senior role as Promoter Coordinator, overseeing a team of beer promoters tasked to serve wedding functions. Although she doubted herself due to her limited education, her supervisor’s words – “Your job will be your best teacher” – inspired her to take the leap. 

In 2019, Kosal embraced a further challenge. She took on a role in Sales Administration at the company’s commercial headquarters. Her long career journey brought her to the centre of HEINEKEN Cambodia’s sales operations. 

“It was a big challenge, a significant shift. I had to develop computer skills, improve my English language proficiency and learn to master new skills that I had little experience in,” she explains.

In her new role, she manages documents and contracts with HEINEKEN’s agents, ensures accurate stock deliveries, processes gratis requests for agents and contributes to the efficient execution of the company’s commercial strategies. 

“I am only able to grow in this long journey because of the support and encouragement of my colleagues and the company,” Kosal expresses with gratitude.

“I want young people to know that no matter where you start, it’s your commitment and willingness to learn that will shape your future. The possibilities are endless if you believe in yourself and stay dedicated,” Kosal says, her smile reflecting the pride in her journey.

HEINEKEN Cambodia currently employs over 700 people across the country while supporting a further 66,000 jobs nationwide, according to a socioeconomic report conducted by impact measurement consultancy, Steward Redqueen, to study the company’s contribution to local society and the Cambodian economy.

The report was presented by HEINEKEN’s Regional President Asia Pacific, Jacco van der Linden, to Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet during a recent visit to mark the brewer’s 30 years of contributions to the Kingdom.