Founded by Kounila and Anirudh, Mekhala grew from independent consulting begun in 2018 into a registered firm in 2020 — built to meet a clear and growing need: strategic communications of international standard, delivered with local depth.
The firm came of age through disruption. As the pandemic reset the industry, Mekhala expanded into the development sector, adding research, behaviour-change and evaluation to a practice already grounded in corporate and brand communications. That pairing — commercial creativity with evidence and rigour — now defines the work.
From an early mandate with a leading international brewer to programmes backed by USAID — work that made Mekhala a U.S. Government federal contractor — the firm has built standing across both worlds. Its footprint is anchored in Cambodia, with selected campaigns reaching across Asia.
We provide strategic counsel and corporate communication services tailored to each client’s unique needs and context. Our team is known for innovation, delivering forward-thinking solutions that help industry leaders manage communications effectively with key stakeholders across Cambodia and Indochina.
Guided by empathy, innovation, and sustainability, we are deeply invested in the sectors our clients operate in and focus on building long-term relationships that create mutual value. Honesty, transparency, and fairness remain at the core of everything we do.
Our communications framework is designed to create tailored, measurable, and results-driven strategies for every client and campaign.
We begin by understanding your SITUATION. We take the time to fully comprehend your current position, your goals, and the challenges you face.
We conduct thorough TARGET analysis. We identify
your key audiences and stakeholders, and understand their needs, preferences, and behaviors.

Anirudh is a seasoned strategic communications specialist and business development expert at Mekhala, with a distinct focus on corporate communications and public relations in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. Transitioning from a legal career in 2018, Anirudh has since applied his analytical acumen and deep understanding of local markets to deliver incisive insights and craft bespoke, impactful strategies for clients.
Anirudh’s diverse background in commerce and law from Gujarat National Law University (India) has been effectively repurposed into the realm of strategic communications. His expertise lies in ensuring compliance with local customs and practices, and in developing strategic plans that resonate with the unique dynamics of the Cambodian market. Anirudh is proficient in English, Hindi, and has an intermediate understanding of Khmer, which further enhances his ability to navigate the local market dynamics.
Since joining Mekhala in 2018, Anirudh has been a driving force behind the agency’s growth and success. His unique blend of analytical thinking, communication expertise, and understanding of diverse markets positions him as an invaluable asset for clients aiming to enhance their corporate communications and public relations capabilities. His innovative approach to strategic communications consistently brings fresh perspectives to the industry.

Kounila, the managing partner at Mekhala, expertly guides the firm’s Cambodian operations, specializing in integrated marketing strategies, public relations, digital campaigns, and market research.
With a background in journalism and a six-year tenure reporting for Agence France Presse (AFP) and other international media outlets, Kounila brings a profound understanding of the Cambodian media landscape. She has partnered with a diverse array of clients, from multinational corporations to international organizations and government agencies, crafting impactful narratives for communities and target audiences.
Kounila has led numerous successful campaigns across both the corporate and development sectors, demonstrating her versatile expertise in strategic communications. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Media and Communications from the Royal University of Phnom Penh, and a Master’s degree in Public Policy with a specialization in International Relations from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (NUS).
Recognized as a leader in her field, Kounila was listed in Forbes 30 under 30 Asia for marketing and media category in 2017. Her impactful approach continues to make a significant mark on the strategic communications industry in Cambodia.