Koun VOl. 1

(2025)

A group of young people standing together outside in front of a yellow building with a large purple sign that says 'KOOL'. The photo is taken at night and features nine individuals, some smiling and some serious, dressed casually. The image is part of the cover for 'A Khmer Youth Archive' exhibit or magazine, scheduled for November 1st, 2025, at Xana Gallery Cafe in St. Paul, Minnesota, from 5 to 7 pm. Names of the individuals are listed in the image, including Arianna Roeun, Nisa Soun, Socheata Sath, Sophia Yom, Rady Sath, Elliny Vanh, Kayla Long, and Rithy Sam.

SEA Us Write & Design creates inclusive, culturally rooted spaces for Southeast Asian youth to grow as writers, artists, and leaders. Its first group, the Khmer Youth Circle, offers a supportive community where Khmer youth can explore identity, build relationships, and develop creative skills while honoring their heritage.

This initiative is funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

Logo of Minnesota Humanities Center featuring a hexagonal geometric design and text.
XIA Books & Café logo with white text on a blue background.
Logo of the Asian Economic Development Association (AEDA) with the acronym AEDA in large blue letters and the full name below with a curved blue line above.
Logo for CAMY, the Center for Asian Minnesota Youth, with a smiling sun character on a teal background.
koun vol. 1 by Sara Gregor and by Marina Heng