Second Lieutenant Ravich Vanichayakornkul

Royal Thai Army, 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, King’s Guard

Industry : Public Service

Second Lieutenant Ravich Vanichayakornkul has already made military history. In 2026, after 44 weeks of training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he became the first Thai cadet to receive its International Sword of Honour – awarded to the outstanding international officer cadet of the intake. The distinction placed both a young officer and his country firmly on an international stage.

His preparation began in Thailand at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School and Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, where he completed an English-language Bachelor of Science programme with first-class honours. His military education has since taken him to the United States Military Academy at West Point and into exercises alongside American and Australian forces, including Cobra Gold and Chapel Gold. He now serves with the 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, King’s Guard.

For Ravich, however, the Sandhurst honour carries meaning beyond professional recognition. Raised in a working-class family, he hopes his achievement will encourage other Thais to believe that background need not limit ambition – or the ability to excel internationally. His own philosophy is grounded in readiness: prepare for opportunities, remain receptive to learning without relinquishing one’s identity, and continue forward even when the path is uncertain.

That path may next lead back to the UK. Ravich hopes to pursue postgraduate study through a Chevening Scholarship, applying the experience he gains to strengthening Thailand’s international standing and contributing to its future.