Upon my arrival to Cambodia just days prior to the beginning of Ride to REACH 2025, I was just a young girl filled with excitement about the chance to travel on my own for the first time, meet new people, and make my mark of difference in the world. I left Cambodia with newly discovered perspectives, passions, and determination to continue promoting the incredible organisation which is REACH.
My decision to sign up for this journey began in July of 2024 when my school, Merici College, sent 10 girls to Cambodia for an immersion tour and luckily for me, the opportunity of a lifetime. We volunteered for a few days at REACH, taking part in boxing lessons, teaching in English classrooms, and getting to know the incredible students and inspiring team of staff. Emily asked if I’d like to have a chat in her office, although I thought I was in trouble for something, she asked if I would be interested in participating in Ride to REACH the following year. I was still unsure of how I wanted to spend my life post-graduation, so willingly I decided that I would dedicate the next month’s to fundraising, saving money, and training to ride 650km. I saw an opportunity to help those less fortunate than myself in a beautiful country that welcomed me so warmly.
Zoe, Veronica, Theap & Sreymom enjoying a well deserved rest.
The group of riders I was alongside are some of the most inspirational people I’ve come across in my short 18 years of life, but it was so refreshing that there was such an age range of individuals like – minded to myself. I assumed that being the youngest rider would mean I’d struggle to connect with the others, but I was so wrong. I made some lifelong friends and felt like I had 27 parents looking after me for the entirety of the experience. By the time we were through, I think we all felt like a family, going through the ups and downs of the riding life, supporting each other through injuries, homesickness, and celebrating each other’s achievements. I could never have imagined the multitude of support that everyone received from one another, something so empowering that would make me consider doing the ride again, looking past the sore bum and legs you endure each day.
Kids running out in a remote village to cheer for Zoe.
Of course, as an 18-year-old young woman, two months post-graduation, it wasn’t an easy task affording to participate in the ride. Although I had just six months to reach my fundraising target and save the money to pay for the tour, I was determined to get the job done with the final goal of finishing the ride at REACH in the back of my mind. I worked as a babysitter for a few families, a barista at my local café, and a waitress at another location. Although I am proud of myself, I can’t take all the credit. I was actively supported by my beautiful family, friends, and some pretty awesome parents who helped me to stay on the right track. I didn’t have a bike to train with, so through the generosity of my neighbour, he lent me a bike with the seat I took with me on the 650km journey. Realising how much the village of people in my life wanted to help me make this as easy as possible meant so much to me and in turn, they all did their part in making a difference as much as I did. Regarding my fundraising, I am eternally grateful for everyone who donated to the cause, with every dollar going so far. I thought about how I could really ensure that people understood how much I value this cause, so rather than asking for gifts for my 18th birthday, I advised everyone that I would much rather have them donate to my fundraising page. I don’t have a lot of need for material things and was insistent that money that may have been spent on a present would go far further towards the Siem Reap community. As hard as it may have been during the preparation period, getting to the finish line made the long journey to get there extremely worthwhile.
Zoe & her fellow rider Sydney reflect after the event comes to an end.
When people ask me what made this experience so special, I envision the finish line as we rode into REACH. I had the privilege and responsibility of leading the whole group through the final stretch as the youngest rider, something I never expected, but will value for the rest of my life. There were bubbles flying around us, cheering, screaming, crying, words of gratitude and encouragement, and pictures getting handed to me as I tried not to stack it onto the gravel. Following the wise words of Sydney Stevens, one of my fellow riders, it made the experience tangible. We were able to see first-hand the impact that was made and how grateful the community within and surrounding REACH felt. As we would ride through the villages of Kep, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and all the destinations along the journey, the kids and families that would run to the streets to wave hello, yell silly things, and give you a high five is what encouraged us to keep pushing. As much discomfort as we were experiencing, the most rewarding aspect was how happy the country was to see us, welcome us, and take care of us. The abundance of support on the ride inclusive of the REACH staff and Ripple Effect Rides team allowed me to feel a sense of security every day I woke up to cycle however many kilometres I was undertaking. There was never a moment I felt concerned about the next opportunity I’d have to take a water break, get some food into me, or uncertainty about where I was going. Having the moto fly past and wave, taking photos, or seeing the Ripple Effect orange circle sign before a much-needed rest kept the whole crew striving for each day’s finish line.
Matt, Ryan and Zoe celebrating another incredible day on the bikes.
The entirety of Ride to REACH 2025 was nothing short of an absolute blessing, pushing me from my comfort zone but for the right purpose. These memories are carved into my brain, and I will carry them with me for the rest of my life. Embarking on this journey is not just about pedalling but making a real difference. Every kilometre you conquer brings hope for a vulnerable community with potential to share their message across the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned cyclist, or like me, a first timer with little training, it wasn’t about achieving perfection, but the heart and passion you’re putting into this cause.
Inspired by Zoe’s incredible journey across Cambodia?
You too can experience the transformative power of Ride to REACH! We’re thrilled to announce that Ride to REACH will be back again in January 2026, and our team is diligently working with Ripple Effect Rides to finalise the details for another unforgettable challenge. By securing your priority spot and saving your saddle, you’ll be the first to receive exclusive updates, including the official dates, route information, fundraising tips, and training recommendations. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a real difference while embarking on an adventure of a lifetime. Join us in supporting REACH and the communities we serve. Save your saddle and be part of something truly special!
Email info@reachsiemreap.org to save your saddle today!
