THE PEOPLE BEHIND CAMBODIAN LEGACY PROJECT
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Meet the team dedicated to sharing and preserving Cambodia's rich cultural heritage for future generations!
FOUNDERS
Kaovny Ma
Jonas (Anee)
Originally from Cambodia and now calling Charlotte, NC home, Kaovny was inspired to launch CLP through her own lived experiences.
After moving to the U.S. as a child and seeing how the next generation was growing up disconnected from their roots, she felt a deep calling to act. The language barrier between grandparents and grandchildren, and the slow fading of cultural traditions, sparked her vision: to build a bridge that connects past and future, elders and youth. Kaovny’s work is rooted in love — for her community, her culture, and the stories that deserve to be carried forward.
Kim Lam
COO & CO-FOUNDER
Kim came to the U.S. in the early 1990s and has been a dedicated advocate for the Cambodian community ever since.
She helps lead with heart and purpose—offering translation support for citizenship, DMV visits, and proudly sharing Cambodian culture. Kim is always learning and engaging from other cultures to integrate culture diversity in our community. A true superwoman, she balances her community work with raising three children, embodying strength, service, and cultural pride.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Aneelia Ma
BAKERY OWNER & CONNECTOR
As a first-generation Asian American, Aneelia understands the complexities of cultural identity and self-discovery. Raised with Black American, Cambodian, and Chinese influences, she found clarity through exploring her heritage—fueling her passion for preserving culture while embracing American roots. Specializing in youth outreach and digital marketing, she uses her expertise—shaped by freelance marketing and running her bakery—to foster engagement, organize impactful events, and strengthen cultural connections. She is a firm believer in the power of storytelling and cultural expression, aiming to bridge generational gaps and help Asian Americans embrace their multifaceted identities with love and confidence.
Be Lam
COMMUNITY LEADER & CHEF
Be Lam is the heart of the Cambodian Legacy Project’s kitchen and garden. A devoted mother of three, she brings her love of cooking and nurturing into everything she does. Whether she’s tending to her garden, preparing a meal, or lending a hand to a neighbor, Be is always there for those who need her. Her passion for preserving Cambodian culture shines through in her culinary leadership, ensuring that the traditions she treasures are passed down not only to her children but also to the wider community.
Jo Hayes
PHOTOGRAPHER & AMPLIFIER
Jo is a Charlotte-based photographer specializing in event and portrait photography. Proudly representing her Asian and American heritage, Jo is passionate about using her lens to amplify cultural pride and representation. Her work often celebrates diversity, unity, and the beauty of shared stories across communities. Beyond the camera, Jo is an active supporter of local cultural initiatives and loves collaborating on projects that bring visibility to underrepresented voices.
CORE MEMBERS
Lea Thach
BUSINESS OWNER & HEALTH DIRECTOR
Lea migrated to the United States from Kampuchea Krom in 1987 as one of twelve children and became the first in her family to graduate college. She holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Florida State University and has 22 years of experience in nursing. Married with two sons, Lea has spent the past three years actively supporting the Cambodian community—volunteering, arranging medical appointments, and assisting with social service applications. She operates an in-home care business and enjoys sewing, gardening, and traveling. Lea is dedicated to promoting community health and empowering Cambodian families.
Johnny Ta
YOUTH AMBASSADOR & STUDENT
Johnny is a first‑generation Asian American and a rising star with the Cambodian Legacy Project. Fresh out of high school, he’s bound for UNC Chapel Hill this fall—on the pre‑med track, with dreams of decoding the mysteries of the brain as a neurologist. When he’s not buried in neuroscience textbooks, Johnny channels his energy into community. His blend of youthful enthusiasm, cultural pride, and scientific curiosity brings fresh perspective to CLP’s mission—and reminds us that the next generation isn’t just the future, they’re already leading the way.
Leiah Nhem
COMMUNITY MEMBER & MAJOR VOLUNTEER
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, deeply committed to cultural preservation and community engagement. Leiah’s children participate in a Cambodian dance program, and the entire family is actively involved in Cambodian language classes.
VOLUNTEER WITH US
This is a community built on collective action. Our network of volunteers provides essential support in marketing, event coordination, and more! Their dedication is the backbone of CLP.
Social Media Coordinator
Develops content to increase awareness of the organization's mission and engages with the community online.
Board Member / Committee Volunteer
Provides strategic leadership, governance, and financial oversight, requiring professional skills.
Event Support Coordinator
Assists with setting up, promoting, and running fundraising events, ensuring tasks run on schedule.
