The Khmerican’s Must Watch Top 12 for 2012 [PHOTOS]

9. VESNA NUON, POLITICIAN

Four Khmericans ran for government office in the state of Massachusetts in 2011, but only two came out victoriously. The winners are Hong Net, now serving as one of the Councilors at Large for the City of Lynn, and our number ninth pick, Vesna Nuon, who became the second successful Cambodian American ever to take a seat on the Lowell City Council, a feat only accomplished by Rithy Uong in 1999. Prior to his appointment, Nuon has a decorated past full of awards and services to community organizations such as the Cambodian American League of Lowell, Southeast Asian Families Against Violence, and United Teens Equality Center. We hope his new leadership inspires more Khmer Americans to run for office and create new opportunities for the people of Lowell.