Interview with Myrte Elise Schrage, EuroCham National Chapter Officer
For this week's interview, Communication Officer Vosumtey Seng sat down with Myrte Elise Schrage, EuroCham's new National Chapter Officer. The pair discussed Schrage's background in advocacy, her passion for helping people, and how she is putting this experience to use in her new position at the chamber.
Vosumtey: Can you tell us a bit about your background and what motivated your move to Cambodia?
Myrte: After completing a master’s degree in Sociology, I began my career in project management with the Municipality of Amsterdam. I worked on various urban development and social policy projects, from designing public spaces and improving public health to redeveloping neighborhoods with active participation from local residents. These experiences sparked my interest in making a positive impact on society.
The dream of living abroad had always been there - I’ve always loved traveling, learning about different cultures, and meeting new people - so in 2019, my husband and I decided to act on it. We moved to Atlanta, United States, where I worked at the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In this role, I handled consular affairs and diplomatic outreach, and organised events such as the first-ever European Film Festival of Atlanta and Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week Spring Runway.
My passion for Southeast Asia eventually brought us to Cambodia, where I had the opportunity to support the EuroCham Cambodia Advocacy Team in updating the White Book: more than 70 policy recommendations intended to improve the business environment and regulatory framework in Cambodia. This involved working closely with various committees and stakeholders to address key issues, such as improving regulations on the minimum drinking age and tackling illicit trade.
Each of these experiences has shaped my professional journey, and I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned to my new role as National Chapter Officer.
Vosumtey: Myrte, you’ve had a strong background in advocacy, having worked in the advocacy department and in the public sector. What led you to transition into your current role as the National Chapter Officer at EuroCham, supporting the German Business Cambodia (GBC), NordCham, and Benelux chapters?
Myrte: My career goal has always been to help people and make a positive impact in society. In my previous roles, I’ve worked on projects aimed at improving people's lives, such as providing consular support to Dutch citizens abroad in need and working on urban development projects to enhance the city of Amsterdam. Transitioning into the National Chapter Officer role at EuroCham Cambodia allows me to continue that mission but in a different way - by supporting the business community. I have always been passionate about fostering connections, advocating for better policies, and contributing to a collaborative environment. Through my work as the National Chapter Officer, I’m able to bring people together from different sectors, supporting their business' growth and making a tangible difference for both businesses and the broader community in Cambodia.
Vosumtey: As someone who has experience in both public sector roles and advocacy, how are you finding the shift to the private sector, specifically in the development of national chapters?
Myrte: It’s been an exciting shift! I really enjoy the dynamic environment of the private sector and the opportunity to work closely with businesses. I like making connections with people and understanding their needs, and the private sector offers so many opportunities for direct impact. The difference in pace and focus between the public and private sectors offers a refreshing new perspective, and I’m finding it both motivating and fulfilling to help the chapters grow and ensure that their businesses are well-supported.
Vosumtey: What are you most excited about in supporting the development of German Business Cambodia, NordCham, and Benelux?
Myrte: As National Chapter Officer, I will support the activities of the German Business Cambodia (GBC), NordCham, and Benelux, focusing on membership, communication, and events. I’m looking forward to working closely with stakeholders across Cambodia to strengthen business connections.
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