WRITER: SCOTT MICHAEL SMITH
Last week marked a significant step forward in my mission to promote sustainable education, both locally and globally. I had the opportunity to introduce The 2030 SDGs Game to a diverse group of people. The 2030 SDGs Game is multiplayer, in-person card game that transports players to the year 2030. This experience has become a powerful and impactful social phenomenon.
Throughout that week, my main focus was on spreading the word about the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to audiences, ranging from young students to professionals and industry leaders. I was genuinely excited to see how it would be received. With my experience in leading the 2030 SDGs Game for university students and young professionals, I had a good feeling it would be well-received.
I was invited by Mr. Martin Venzky-Stalling to co-facilitate the game at the prestigious Sustainability Expo in Bangkok on October 3, 2023. At this event, 50+ industry leaders actively participated in the two-hour experience, and many others dropped by to join in the excitement and learn more about the experience.
Setting course for Phnom Penh, Cambodia, I carried Assumption University's commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to new frontiers with the help of The 2030 SDGs Game.
On October 5th, I had the honor of facilitating The 2030 SDGs Game at the Australian International School Phnom Penh (AISPP). This wasn't just another academic activity; it was historical. AISPP has now become the first school in Cambodia to engage in this transformative experience, and the 120+ participating students have been inducted into a new paradigm of thinking about global challenges.
Australian International School Phnom Penh (AISPP)
The following day, I extended my mission to Asian Hope International School. There, students, informed by their Christian values, participated with a blend of enthusiasm and introspective thought. This wasn't merely a game to them—it was a moral compass guiding their visions of a better world.
Asian Hope International School Phnom Penh
My time in Phnom Penh wasn't just about the present; it was about laying a foundation for the future. In discussions with Paragon International School, we explored opportunities for future collaborations, including the possibility of international student exchanges with Assumption University. These dialogues promise to catalyze lasting educational synergies.
Paragon International School Phmom Penh
Yet, the trip was more than just an academic endeavor. Venturing beyond the scholarly realm, I reconnected with AU alumnus Mr. Thanisorn Sethasuphang aka Big. Big, along with his partner, Mr. Suebpong Thewanutaiwong, are making waves in the Cambodian food scene with several eateries.
My friendship with Big spans years—from our formative days in the classroom to our frequent participation in SKAL networking events, where Big actively engaged as a Young SKAL member. Whenever the chance arose to represent Assumption University on the global stage, like in Taiwan and Korea, Big was always the first to volunteer, embodying the spirit of 'I'll give it a go.’, reinforcing my belief that Big was destined for greatness.
Mr. Thanisorn and Mr. Suebpong are emerging tycoons in Cambodia’s growing lifestyle and food market
Together, they own and manage an impressive and diverse range of dining establishments, from KIN BUN HOUSE catering to Dim Sum lovers, to Belly Burger for those craving classic American fare. That's not all; they’re also branching out into the realm of wedding planning, adding a new dimension to their already thriving business. This dynamic duo have crafted a niche in Cambodia's ever-expanding lifestyle market.
This Cambodian chapter has been more than just an academic adventure; it's a lighthouse project, signaling what's possible in international collaborations focused on sustainable education.
The 2030 SDGs Game is more than an educational tool; it's a catalyst for change that goes beyond the classroom and touches the soul. When you invite this experience into your organization or school, you're not just booking a game—you're unlocking the potential for real-world impact. If you're ready to be a part of a transformative journey that combines global insight with actionable solutions, then let's make history together.
Contact me, Dr. Scott, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Assumption University stands at the forefront of this movement, and we invite you to stand with us.
This isn't just education; this is a transformation. Are you in?
