Phnom Penh, Cambodia – In a world where creativity intersects with purpose, Lymei Sun, a proud alumna of Paragon International University, developed a brand that genuinely originates from the HEART! Her brand Kokoro, derives from the Japanese word “kokoro – こころ” meaning “heart”. Each product from aesthetically pleasing journals to carefully thought-out stationery products is designed with heart and with intention. Lymei believes all creation comes from the heart with the intention of serving and touching another heart.
From Family Foundations to Innovative Present Day
Entrepreneurship is in Lymei’s family background, with her mom launching a shoe store long before Lymei was born. As a child, she used to play in and around her family business, and so the juxtaposition of commerce and kindness through customer service left their impression on her. Upon graduating she began helping her family business with some light projects, but soon realized she wanted to build something for herself. Something that would be an original and creative idea that also functions. In 2023 that idea and vision was realized in creating Kokoro with instincts of business and a foundation of art.
A Brand Built from the Heart
Kokoro Cambodia differentiates itself in Cambodia’s stationery market as one of the most revered aesthetic stationery brands; offering journals, pens, planners, and accessories. After starting the brand themselves, Lymei and her husband created the entire logo and design for the product. Together, they live with the belief that everything they create must come from the heart and make their consumers happy.
Situated in a tranquil setting in the midst of nature, the Kokoro Cambodia Shop is more than just a place to buy stationery; it’s an experience. Lymei believes that reconnecting with nature is important, especially as we navigate a busy, digital world today. Her products are purposefully created to encourage people to move at a slower pace, step away from screens, and enjoy writing with their hand and pen again. For her, journaling is not just about being organized, but it is a form of mindfulness, too.
The store has developed quickly since it first opened and had a strong period of time supporting a community of stationery fans. Kokoro currently has an account on Instagram, @kokorocambodia, with over 26000 followers who demonstrate Lymei’s commitment to creating a brand that is proud of creativity and warmth.
From Paragon.U to Entrepreneurship
Lymei graduated from Paragon International University in 2016, she pursued Digital Arts and Design (DAD), the only student of that major at the time. This experience at Paragon.U produced defining moments in her life. She noted that lessons she learned and skills she gained through DAD, especially about design thinking and creative problem solving, have been essential building her business identity and branding.
Her experience is a powerful example of how education in design can provide new avenues in organizations beyond traditional employment, propelling her feats in connecting artistry and entrepreneurship in a deeply meaningful way.
A Note for Young Alumni and current Paragon.U students
Lymei’s experience teaches us that innovation often emerges at the intersection of passion and persistence. From support for her mother’s shoe business to building one of Cambodia’s most treasured stationery companies, she has continued to demonstrate that success is not about what we sell, but entrepreneurial successes are about the heart and care we put into what we create.
Explore Kokoro Cambodia
– Location: Concrete Road, Koh Norea Village, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, open everyday 8:00am-9:30pm,
– Instagram: @kokorocambodia (https://www.instagram.com/kokorocambodia/)
– Contact No: (096) 911 8889
This visit was joined by Mr. Bekzhan Tolybay, Vice-Rector for Administrative Affairs and Mr. Mara Y Sles, Alumni Affairs Officer.