Varaman Kouch and his brothers Asia and Calvin Kouch are transforming Cambodia’s sports landscape with their company UpNext. This pioneering sports company is paving the way with its elite basketball camp.
Cambodia’s youth and sports sector has undergone significant changes in recent years. The country’s young generation is eager and enthusiastic about embracing new opportunities, actively participating in various sports-based youth programmes, including fitness and basketball.
At just 23 years old, Varaman Kouch is planning a reconstruction and innovation to Cambodia’s youth and sports sector. As an entrepreneur and visionary leader, Varaman’s tireless efforts are transforming the landscape for young athletes and professionals in his homeland. With a passion for empowering the next generation, he has co-founded ground-breaking initiatives that bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.
Prestige had the privilege of meeting this trailblazer at The Siam Hotel, an exquisite retreat in old Bangkok. Designed by the renowned Bill Bensley, this 1920s French colonial-inspired sanctuary offers a serene escape along the Chao Phraya River, quietly blending history with luxury. It’s the perfect backdrop for our conversation, away from Bangkok’s notorious traffic, where we talk about Varaman’s journey, and his vision for Cambodia, and the future he is striving to create.
Varaman Kouch studied Politics and International Relations at Queen Mary University, London. He sees himself as a catalyst for change, working tirelessly to create opportunities for young people to shine and achieve their full potential. “My journey is fuelled by a deep love for my country and a desire to see Cambodia thrive on the global stage,” says Varaman.
He is already making a significant impact as a dedicated sports leader committed to empowering Cambodia’s youth. Together with his younger brothers, Asia and Calvin, he co-founded UpNext and Gymworks in Phnom Penh. Gymworks focuses on premium fitness apparel and lifestyle products, while UpNext is revolutionising sports and professional opportunities for young Cambodians.
The inspiration for UpNext stemmed from Varaman’s deep belief in the potential of Cambodian youth. “Growing up, I saw young people with immense talent and ambition, but they lacked opportunities and platforms to nurture their qualities. In 2017, my brothers and I founded UpNext to bridge this gap. We wanted to create a space where young athletes and professionals could develop their skills, gain exposure, and make their voices heard internationally,” says Varaman.
Varaman describes his vision as one of empowerment, inclusivity, and global impact. In today’s interconnected world, these concepts have become increasingly important. He hopes to give young and talented individuals the tools, platforms, and resources they need to control their future and make informed decisions.
UpNext’s mission is to provide the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to achieve these goals. Varaman, Asia and Calvin saw the opportunity to allow the young generation to develop their full potential in sports and actively participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives. By promoting self-sufficiency and building confidence in their abilities, UpNext improves Cambodia’s overall human resources quality, leading to positive outcomes for both individuals and society.
“The most challenging aspects include securing the necessary resources and support to sustain and expand our sports initiatives by partnering with the Cambodia Basketball Federation to establish the first organised youth basketball league in Cambodia that will eventually progress to the pro league.” Varaman continues. “The challenge of this project is to create a meaningful roadmap that ensures the longevity of our efforts. Crafting a purposeful narrative to attract financial and opportunity support from major brands will be crucial in sustaining the league and all the initiatives we plan to undertake.”
As the founder of UpNext, Varaman states that some of his core responsibilities include setting the strategic direction, building and maintaining partnerships, overseeing the development of programmes, and ensuring that the team stays aligned with the organisation’s mission to empower young athletes and professionals. “My role at UpNext is like that of a conductor, orchestrating all the key components of our operation based on the community. My goal is to unite everyone, regardless of their interests, under one common purpose: providing a platform and voice for those dedicated to a particular hobby or pursuit. Whether it’s sports, media, or fashion, our aim is to be the voice and beacon of hope for Cambodians, ensuring our Kingdom’s voices are heard around the world.”
When discussing inclusivity, Varaman refers to an inclusive society that ensures everyone has a sense of belonging and can contribute to their full potential. By embracing diversity, inclusivity fosters creativity, innovation, and mutual understanding among individuals from different backgrounds or walks of life. This stimulates social justice and equality and creates a more harmonious and prosperous society.
The UpNext head of player development, Coach Jordan, who recently organised the camp, will be relocating from Atlanta to Cambodia in October. The league is scheduled to start on December 1st and will consist of five teams, formed through tryouts and a drafting process.
UpNext aims to transform the sports landscape in Cambodia. “Strategically, we aim to expand our reach, enhance our programmes, and continuously support the development of our community,” Varaman remarks.
“Our future goal for UpNext is to expand our reach across all provinces in Cambodia, integrating a more comprehensive range of sports and professional fields. We also plan to strengthen our global presence through our UpNext Community and Discord channel, connecting Cambodian talent with international opportunities and audiences,” he adds.
For the three founders, UpNext is a celebration of Cambodian culture, sports, and talent. “We provide a platform for young locals to showcase their abilities and gain recognition. By highlighting the stories and achievements of our participants, we promote our rich heritage and demonstrate the incredible potential of our youth on a global scale.”
With many businesses under his management, the young entrepreneur says time management is the key. “I prioritise tasks based on their urgency and impact, delegate responsibilities to trusted team members, and maintain a disciplined schedule. This allows me to give adequate attention to all aspects of my businesses while ensuring that each initiative receives the focus it needs to thrive.”
While there are other organisations in the sports sector, UpNext stands out through its unwavering commitment to its vision. Its comprehensive approach, which combines sports with personal and professional development, sets it apart and ensures holistic support for the society and sports community.
Varaman envisions the sports industry in Cambodia growing with enhanced infrastructure, increased support, and greater recognition. “I hope to see more opportunities for athletes, improved training facilities, and increased participation in international competitions.” By fostering a strong sports culture, Varaman and his brothers hope to inspire future generations and elevate national pride.
Varaman sees Cambodia as a leading sports and professional excellence hub in five years. He envisions these young athletes and professionals significantly contributing to the global stage. UpNext will be at the forefront of this transformation, driving innovation and creating new opportunities.
“My heroes are my father, Channarith Sun, and my uncle, Chanthol Sun,” he says. “My father guided me through life’s journey, teaching me that anything is achievable with heart and dedication. My uncle, who set the highest standards, inspired me to believe there are no limits and to continually push Cambodia and its development onto the world stage.” He is also inspired by individuals who demonstrate resilience, determination, and commitment to positively impacting the world.
Varaman is also passionate about community development, education, and exploring new ways to empower and uplift the youth of Cambodia. “I am also interested in technology and innovation, which I believe can play a crucial role in our country’s development. I enjoy reading. Currently, I am reading three books, The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene, The Republic by Plato, and The Art of War by Sun Tzu.”
Varaman hopes to achieve broader reach across different regional provinces, platforms, cultures, and even nations. He plans to hold an official press conference with the Cambodian Basketball Federation to publicly announce the partnership. Following this, plans are underway to visit all international and public schools to advocate for UpNext to become an official partner with every school in Cambodia. The mission is to spread awareness and be a beacon of hope for all Cambodians.
Photography VUTH SOVIN CHEM & LONGDY ONG (TEDDY)
Producer DANIEL HU
Art Direction FOUSING SEM
Fashion Stylist ELISA CHHUON BUNTHA
Photography Assistants SKARAVY YA & RATH KHUN
Editorial Coordinator SOKARHENA VA & SIVLY PAN
Location THE SIAM HOTEL, BANGKOK
Editor-in-Chief
Vuth Sovin Chem, known as Sovin, is the editor-in-chief of Prestige Cambodia and an accomplished photographer with a passion for capturing the essence of life through his lens. With 17 years of experience ..Read More
