Staff Spotlight: Rottana Dy

Rottana Dy is a Program Officer based in Cambodia. Rottana started working for Landesa in 2021.

What brought you to Landesa?

With a background in Environmental Science, I became interested in how secure land rights shape people’s livelihoods and sustainable development. I joined Landesa because I wanted to learn more about land tenure security in Cambodia while contributing to work that helps rural communities better understand and protect their land rights.

What are your core responsibilities in your role?

I work closely with the Landesa Cambodia team and civil society partners to support land tenure security initiatives across Cambodia. My responsibilities include assisting with research and project assessments, supporting and monitoring local partner implementation, coordinating project activities, and engaging with communities and stakeholders to strengthen understanding of land rights and land registration processes. I also carry out other duties as assigned to support the implementation of Landesa’s land tenure security programs.

What is the most rewarding part of your work at Landesa?

The most rewarding and happiest part of my work at Landesa is seeing families receive their hard land titles (granting full ownership rights) after supporting them throughout the process. It is especially meaningful to see communities – particularly women – gain confidence, understand their land rights, and actively participate in land registration activities and local authority meetings.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working?

Outside of work, I enjoy doing housework, reading, and sharing motivational messages that encourage others to stay positive and keep moving forward. On weekends, I also pursue my master’s degree in a climate change program, and I make time to stay connected with my family, mostly my mother and my older sister, through regular phone calls.

Describe your vision for a better world.

I envision a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive, communities have secure rights to their land and resources, and development is inclusive and sustainable. I believe that when people are empowered with knowledge, respected in decision-making, and given opportunities to succeed, they create a ripple effect that strengthens families, uplifts communities, and inspires the next generation to pursue their dreams and build a better future.