Faces of Thalias: Channat Pin, senior legal advisor, perseverance and successes

We discover today the inspiring story of Channat Pin, a determined woman who overcame significant difficulties to succeed in her career in the legal profession. She is today a pillar of the legal department in Thalias Group.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

My name is Pin Channat. I am almost 30 years old. I completed my tertiary education in 2019, achieving a degree in public law from the Royal University of Law and Economics in Phnom Penh.

Could you please tell us your place of origin?

I am from the province of Battambang and relocated to Phnom Penh for the purpose of pursuing my studies. Following the completion of my degree, I opted to remain in Phnom Penh, a city that offers a wider range of employment opportunities.

What was your background prior to commencing your university education?

I was born into a financially constrained family, and I lost my parents at a very early age, when I was approximately nine years old. I became cognizant at a very early age that education could provide me with a better life. Thus, I endeavored to continue my education despite the numerous difficulties I encountered. Within my community, many people sought employment as laborers in Thailand, because there were limited employment opportunities in my province. Prior to attending university, I did not consider that I would ever be able to work in an office.

How did you manage to get into university?

I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship from an NGO in Phnom Penh, who visited my province and selected only four students, and I was one of them. This scholarship had a transformative effect on my life, as it covered my accommodation, food and transport costs, and I was able to focus solely on my studies.

What field do you work in today and what are your day-to-day duties?

I currently work in the legal and compliance field within the Thalias group. I joined Thalias in 2017 as a legal trainee and was promoted to legal assistant three months later. In 2021, I moved up to the position of senior legal counsel. My main responsibilities involve dealing with commercial contracts, leases and license applications to ensure the company’s compliance.

What qualities have helped you to succeed in your job?

I find my work rewarding and enjoy sharing my knowledge, often advising colleagues on legal issues. This role has been transformative in helping me to overcome my previous shyness and improve my public speaking skills.