My name is Makara. I was born in Koh Oknha Tey, a small island in Kandal province. In 2013, my family moved to Siem Reap to start a café business. As someone who moved from one province to another, I didn’t have many friends at first. I was a quiet and shy person, so it was hard for me to connect with others.

When I was in Grade 10, I heard about an English Access Microscholarship Program supported by the U.S. Embassy, hosted at Anjali House. I asked my parents for permission to join, and they supported my decision. That opportunity changed my life. The program didn’t just teach us English—it opened my eyes to real-life lessons, community work, and leadership. In just two years, I learned more than I ever expected.

After completing the program, I focused on my Grade 12 studies and passed the national exam. Later, I and some of my teams from Access program received an unexpected opportunity to work with a tech company in Phnom Penh. Even though none of us in the selected group had previous work experience, the chairman believed in us and gave us a chance. I moved to Phnom Penh and spent three years there, gaining experience and learning about life in the city.

However, my time in Phnom Penh was not what I had imagined. The work itself wasn’t the hardest part—it was the lifestyle and pressure to survive that affected me deeply. I did everything I could to earn money, but it eventually led me to depression.

One of my seniors, who had gone to Phnom Penh with me, invited me on a short vacation to Siem Reap. That trip helped me feel lighter, happier, and more connected to myself. It gave me time to reflect on what I truly wanted in life. I realized that Siem Reap is where my heart belongs, and working with people—especially in an organization with purpose—is what brings me joy.

After returning to Phnom Penh, I decided to not renew my contract and move back to Siem Reap after my last working day. Being back gave me space to recover, reflect, and start again. I worked with my senior to organize small trainings at Oudor Meanchey province and began searching for new opportunities to grow. That’s when I discovered REACH.

After researching more about REACH, I felt a deep connection with its mission and values. Like REACH, I believe in empowering others and helping our community grow stronger. I applied right away because I know that giving, supporting, and uplifting others is what truly makes me happy.

Throughout my life, I’ve had mentors who listened to me, supported me, and helped guide me through hard times. Now, I want to become that kind of person for others—especially youth who may be going through what I once faced. I believe we can build a better future together at REACH.