Investing in Thailand’s Future Through Education - 2023 AMCHAM/FedEx Career Camp 

On June 11-14, The American Chamber of Commerce Foundation (ATF) hosted a four-day Career Camp for AMCHAM Scholarship students. The program aimed to equip talented scholarship students with valuable life skills, including mock job interviews, effective communication tools, and networking tips to enhance their career prospects and foster their professional development.

The AMCHAM Scholarship program provides financial assistance and mentorship opportunities to outstanding students from diverse backgrounds throughout Thailand. The ATF Career Camp is organized as part of AMCHAM's ongoing commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of high potential financially disadvantaged Thai youth. Over the course of four days, students engaged in a series of interactive workshops designed to broaden their understanding of various industries and career paths.

“The AMCHAM staff are very supportive. I have been able to practice my English skills since day one, starting with the Ice Breaker activity—learning to get to know myself and others—and meeting many new friends”, Pariya Khammoonbun, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. Patcharapa Aeksiri, a fourth-year student from Kasetsart University added, “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to ATF and ATF sponsors for providing me the opportunity to continue my academic journey. Without the scholarship, I would not have a future. I have learned so much from the workshops like networking skills, work prioritization, and teamwork, which are essential.”

The Career Camp featured esteemed professionals and guest speakers from AMCHAM member companies, including 3M Thailand, Bank of America, Berkeley International School, Bitkub Capital, CES Holdings, ChangeWorks, Citibank, CoffeeWORKS, Dale Carnegie, FedEx, GP Strategies, Harmless Harvest, Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok, International SOS Services, JacksonGrant Recruitment, Kenan Foundation Asia, Lazada, Lim-Loges & Masters, Maersk, PepsiCo, ThoughtWorks, Takeda, Tilleke & Gibbins, and United Overseas Bank (UOB).

In addition to the informative sessions, the Career Camp fostered networking opportunities, allowing the AMCHAM Scholarship students to connect with ATF alumni who provided valuable tips based on their experience. During the ATF Certificate Ceremony, ATF graduating student, Wildan Muna, Taksin University delivered a speech, stating, “The AMCHAM Thailand scholarship provides more than just financial assistance. It connects me to a network of accomplished individuals who share similar visions and aspirations. This invaluable opportunity allows me to forge connections with successful professionals, mentors, and peers who can provide guidance, advice, and support along my journey. The ability to surround myself with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the world is truly inspiring, and I am excited to contribute to this community of change-makers.”

As the Career Camp concluded, ATF Vice President, Heidi Gallant, expressed the ATF’s commitment to providing ongoing career guidance to AMCHAM Scholarship students beyond the event. “It’s important to AMCHAM and the Foundation to form a bond with our scholars now and for the future. The orientation and career camps that we organize for them give us this chance to ensure we have a lasting relationship with these talented people whom we’ve guided into the local workforce.” The Foundation aims to empower these young talents to thrive in their chosen field and contribute to a community of impactful professionals. Special thanks to FedEx for sponsoring the event and to AIA for sponsoring the venue for the event.

About ATF

In 2004, AMCHAM formally registered the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) to carry out its charitable activities. The ATF is recognized by the Ministry of Finance as a Public Charitable Organization (number 632) and donations are deductible in Thailand.

100% of all cash donations go to scholarships and direct program costs. No donations are applied to overheads, as administrative support is provided entirely by AMCHAM staff and the Community Projects Council.