BANGKOK – The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) recently welcomed its 2025-2026 scholarship recipients at a two-day Orientation Camp in Bangkok, held January 19 to 21.
The camp helped students get ready for university and vocational programs across Thailand. It mixed hands-on workshops with group activities that built everyday life skills and practical know-how.
Heidi Gallant, ATF Vice President and Executive Director of AMCHAM Thailand, shared how the program supports students over the long term: “Our ATF Scholarship program, along with orientation and career camps, gives students the resources they need to succeed in their educational and professional journeys.
Thanks to the support of AMCHAM member companies, we’re able to fund these opportunities, host meaningful workshops, and become an important resource for the students.”
Workshops Led by AMCHAM Member Companies
AMCHAM member companies ran several sessions focused on personal growth and core skills students can use right away:
- Ice-breaker activities, led by Chattawat Chaiyatham of Dale Carnegie, helped students build teamwork and communication skills.
- CPR training, provided by First Aid Training Bangkok, taught key life-saving techniques.
- Money Smart for Student Life, facilitated by Naambo Shivute and Natakarn Tiplert of LawtonAsia Insurance Brokers, covered budgeting basics, saving habits, and simple financial planning.
- Stay Safe, Stay Smart: Protecting You in a Digital World, led by Kulwarang Wongthrirat and Jutikarn Timpradub of Our Rescue, focused on digital safety, online risks, and ways to protect personal information.
- Designing the Life of Your Dreams with Ikigai, with Samantha Marion from the Asian Institute of Hospitality & Management (AIHM) & Minor Education, encouraged students to reflect on purpose, strengths, and interests.
Students shared strong feedback about the sessions, and many said the training felt useful for both school and everyday life. Several also said the camp helped them feel more prepared for new challenges ahead.
Beyond the workshops, students talked about gaining confidence, meeting new friends, and feeling more excited about what comes next. “The activities helped me gain diverse perspectives and exchange experiences with others and also helped me learn new insights beyond the classroom,” said Prim (Purimpruch Intharak), Naresuan University.
Phorn (Ketsiriphon Singhapanyachot) from Nawamintrachinee Mae Hong Son Industrial and Community Education College also reflected on her growth during the camp: “I was not very confident speaking at first.
However, throughout the camp, the staff and fellow students were incredibly caring. They regularly checked in on me and helped translate things I didn’t understand. This camp helped me become more confident, and the next time I join, I hope to return as a new version of myself, with greater confidence.”
Scholarship Growth in 2025 and Goals for 2026
In 2025, ATF raised more than four million baht to fund scholarships for 116 students. The foundation plans to grow the program in 2026, with a target of supporting 135 students in university and vocational education. ATF continues to focus on building future leaders and supporting Thailand’s skilled workforce.
ATF also stays focused on helping students who face financial barriers access academic, vocational, and career paths. Working with AMCHAM member companies, the foundation supports students with tools, training, and guidance they can carry into school, work, and their communities.
About the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation ATF
Founded in 2004, the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) runs charitable programs and is recognized by the Ministry of Finance as a Public Charitable Organization (number 632). Donations are tax-deductible in Thailand.
ATF directs 100% of cash donations to scholarships and program costs. AMCHAM staff and the Community Projects Council provide administrative support, so donation funds are not used for overhead. For more information, contact foundation@amchamthailand.com.
