Background  

Epic Arts is an international organisation based in Kampot, Cambodia. It works to create a world where people with disabilities are included, valued, and free from discrimination. Founded in 2001 as a UK charity and officially recognised by the Cambodian government in 2006, Epic Arts promotes the message that “Every Person Counts.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability and alignment with national priorities, Epic Arts has formal Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, and the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport. These partnerships strengthen the organisation’s ability to influence policy, strengthen and expand inclusive education, and promote the rights of people with disabilities across Cambodia.

Through education, community outreach, and social enterprise, Epic Arts is dedicated to transforming the lives of children, youth, and adults with disabilities. By harnessing the power of creativity and performance, Epic Arts helps individuals flourish, builds inclusive communities, and champions equality everywhere — from local neighbourhoods to national levels and onto global stages.

Guided by its core values of respect, honesty, commitment, creativity, quality, empathy, and adaptability, Epic Arts responds to community needs, promotes inclusive societies, and develops sustainable models of creative economies.

Epic Arts’ work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on:

  • Goal 10: Reducing Inequalities
  • Goal 4: Quality Education
  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Epic Arts Program

1) Inclusive Education Program

We empower and educate children, youth, and persons with disabilities to live independently and thrive in society. Working with the Department and Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and other relevant government ministries, we influence public policy to promote sustainable and inclusive education and vocational training in Cambodia.

Projects:

  • Special Education
  • Inclusive Vocational Training
  • Access to work

2) Community Program

We promote disability rights and social inclusion at local, national, and international levels, while addressing the needs of our target communities. We advocate for inclusive public policies through the arts, social work, and the ChildSafe Movement. Believing in the power of collaboration, we foster strong partnerships with the Cambodian government, local authorities, like-minded organisations, and the general public to enhance disability inclusion across society.

Projects:

  • Social Work and ChildSafe Movement
  • Community Events
  • Research and Networking

3) Social Enterprise Program

We create inclusive workplaces through the Epic Arts Café, Epic Arts Dance, Epic Creations, and other creative economic initiatives. We provide opportunities, economic empowerment, and employment for persons with disabilities, while advocating for disability rights and raising public awareness.
The income generated from this program supports the development and growth of Epic Arts, enabling us to expand our impact and ensure long-term job security for persons with disabilities.

Projects:

  • Epic Arts Cafe
  • Epic Arts Creation Shop
  • Epic Arts Dance Company

Partnership with Ponlok Chomnes II

Through the “Climate Resilience for All” project, Epic Arts aims to strengthen climate resilience efforts in Cambodia by ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in climate action and policy dialogue. Implemented in Kampot and across the country, the project addresses the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly those with disabilities, by promoting accessible information, inclusive disaster preparedness, and arts-based advocacy.

Key initiatives include the development and dissemination of inclusive climate change information in multiple accessible formats, the creation of disability-sensitive disaster preparedness plans in collaboration with relevant authorities, and the use of performance and digital media to raise public awareness. Epic Arts will also host workshops, community events, and policy dialogues to empower individuals with disabilities and advocate for inclusive climate policies.

This project highlights the urgent need for inclusive approaches to climate resilience and aims to ensure that all communities, regardless of ability, are prepared for and protected from climate-related challenges.

Please click here for more information about Epic Arts.