The Harpswell Leadership Residents program invites international women to volunteer, mentoring and teaching young Cambodian women while immersing themselves in Khmer culture. Launching in 2025, the Harpswell Leadership Resident Fellowship is a one-year, fully residential role at Harpswell’s leadership centers in Phnom Penh. It offers one outstanding young woman the chance to lead and support the Leadership Residents (LRs), help manage the program, and shape its culture.
Working closely with Harpswell’s Cambodian Women’s Leadership staff, the Fellow will foster collaboration, mentorship, and cultural exchange. The Harpswell Leadership Residents Program position also welcomes creative input, encouraging the Fellow to propose new ideas and initiatives that enhance the impact of the program. A $330 monthly stipend covers room, board, and insurance. The application deadline is July 14, 2025 for the 2026 cohort
Institution & Program Details
Organization: Harpswell Foundation
Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Ranking: N/A (a non-profit leadership institute for Cambodian women)
Program Duration: 4 months (May–August or November–February)
Study Areas
- Women’s leadership and empowerment
- English language education
- Critical thinking & current-events facilitation
- Cross-cultural collaboration
Core Responsibilities – LR Fellow
- Build strong relationships with students and alumnae
- Lead Core Curriculum and critical thinking discussions
- Manage LR program scheduling and staffing
- Onboard new Leadership Residents (LRs)
- Foster collaboration among the LR cohort
- Organize one cultural and one volunteer activity per quarter
- Assist Communications Officer with content gathering
- Teach Harpswell’s Core Curriculum
- Lead twice-weekly discussions on current events
- Tutor students in English
- Hold regular office hours
- Support student leadership development
- Build relationships with students and alumnae
- Plan cultural activities outside the center
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Harpswell Leadership Residents Program Benefits
- Immersive cultural exchange in Cambodia
- Homestay opportunities with students’ families
- Full room and board, travel insurance, and stipend:
- LR: $330/month
- LR Fellow: $420/month
- Travel to/from Cambodia is self-funded
- Optional part-time internships with local NGOs
- Access to virtual mentorship and expert-led sessions
Benefits Not Included
- International flights to/from Cambodia
- Personal expenses (meals outside board, visa fees, extracurricular travel)
Eligibilities for Harpswell Leadership Residents Program
- International women with university degrees
- Committed to social change, women’s leadership, and education
- Curious, flexible, independent, and resourceful
- Strong English skills (teaching experience preferred)
- Willing to work evenings and weekends
- Additional Requirements for LR Fellows
- At least 2 years of professional experience
- Teaching experience strongly preferred
Required Documents
Applicants typically need:
- CV/resume
- Motivational essay (aligned with Harpswell values)
- Academic transcripts
- Professional references
- Proof of language proficiency (if relevant)
(Exact details may vary—check official site)
Harpswell Leadership Residents Program Application Process
- Application LINK:
- Prepare documents (CV, essays, references).
- Complete the online application form (no fee).
- Submit all materials by 14 July 2025.
- Interview with Harpswell team (if shortlisted).
- Receive final offer and arrange travel independently.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Show genuine enthusiasm for women’s leadership and cultural exchange.
- Highlight concrete teaching or mentoring experience.
- Reflect on professional growth goals: how will this role enrich your path?
- Demonstrate flexibility, resourcefulness, and readiness for non-traditional hours.
- Proofread carefully—clear, concise, active voice writing makes a strong impact.
Monthly Living Expenses in Phnom Penh
While program essentials are covered, extra expenses typically include:
- Local transport: $30–50
- Food/extras: $100–150
- Mobile/Internet: $20–30
- Leisure & occasional travel: $50–100
Estimated monthly budget outside stipend support: $200–300
Why Choose This Opportunity?
- Immerse yourself fully in Khmer culture and dorm life
- Contribute directly to young Cambodian women’s leadership journeys
- Expand your resume with international development experience
- Join a global network of inspirational women leaders
- Grow personally through hands-on teaching and mentorship in a meaningful environment
FAQs (at least 5)
Q1: Who can apply?
A1: Any woman with a bachelor’s degree, English skills, and 2+ years experience—especially if you’ve taught or mentored
Q2: Are flights covered?
A2: No—participants must book and fund their own travel to Cambodia.
Q3: How long is the program?
A3: Candidates choose either a 4-month block between May–Aug or Nov–Feb
Q4: What do residents do?
A4: Teach English, facilitate discussions, tutor, lead office hours, and create cultural activities
Q5: What’s included in the stipend?
A5: $330/month covers daily expenses, with accommodation, board, and insurance provided
Q6: Is it competitive?
A6: Yes. Highlight teaching/mentorship experience, cross-cultural sensitivity, and flexibility to enhance your candidacy.
Q7: What’s the selection timeline?
A7: After the July 14 closing, expect rounds of review and interviews, with final offers by late summer.
Official Link & Application
For full details and to apply, visit Harpswell’s official page:
Harpswell Leadership Residents at Harpswell Foundation website
