Every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential, regardless of their academic ability. In today’s educational landscape, a significant gap exists between students from affluent families and those from less privileged backgrounds.
While some children benefit from resources like access to the internet, computers, books, and extracurricular activities, others face numerous obstacles just to remain in school. Many students from difficult backgrounds struggle with necessities and often lack the emotional support crucial to succeed academically.
At REACH, we believe that to overcome poverty effectively, families have the best chance if they have holistic support. Our approach includes sustainable programs, partnerships with like-minded organisations, and initiatives aimed at both educational and personal development. Our ecosystem of offerings, integrated approach and strategies are crucial for empowering our enrolled children to fight for their futures and achieve their dreams.
One of our up-and-coming standout initiatives is the Bridging Class, led by our Education Manager, Mardy. Within our Youth Pathways program, this class is specifically designed for students who find public school challenging, who have dropped out of formal education and are better suited to vocational streams.
One of our Bridging Pathways students during a class activity.
Understanding that further education is not a one-size-fits-all solution, Mardy and the Youth Pathways team have been working very hard to ensure that every youth approaching the end of their time at REACH, has access to opportunities tailored to their unique interests and strengths.
In response to several of our youth discontinuing from public school, our Bridging Classes commenced earlier this year. To prevent our youth from entering exploitative trades, our team began coordinating extra classes for them, providing them with a full-time schedule at REACH which focused on not only improving their English and Computer skills but also their Khmer Literacy, interpersonal skills and various work experience placements within our programs.
To illustrate the impact of the various streams within our Youth Pathways programs, here are three recent success stories from REACH students who have successfully secured Vocational Training Placements in Siem Reap this year:
** All names have been changed for child protection purposes.
Sokvin’s Path
Sokvin was among the first students to join REACH when we opened in 2020. He was enthusiastic about school and excelled in his studies both in public school and REACH, taking full advantage of the programs and activities we offered.
During an educational excursion, Sokvin learned about Salabaï, an NGO providing hospitality training through their restaurant, hotel, and spa. Intrigued by the opportunities at Salabaï, Sokvin received guidance from our team and decided to apply. His application was successful, and he will be starting his training at Salabaï in October 2024.
This new phase represents a significant step forward in his educational journey, aligning perfectly with his interests and career goals.
Sokvin with our Youth Pathways leader Seangheng.
Sreyny’s Journey
Sreyny’s journey began at REACH, following in the footsteps of her younger brother, Sokvin. Though her time was brief, it proved pivotal in shaping her future.
Inspired by our educational excursions, Sreyny’s ambition ignited. Our Youth Pathways leader saw her potential and encouraged her to apply for a scholarship in the Spoons vocational training program. Despite initial doubts and a failed Grade 12 exam, Sreyny’s determination prevailed.
10 months in, her transformation has been remarkable. From a shy individual, she has blossomed into a confident young woman, driven to become a Front Desk manager.
Currently, she is interning at a renowned 5-star wellness resort in Siem Reap.
Sreyny is now focusing on improving her English skills and continues to work diligently towards her career aspirations. We can’t wait to celebrate her graduation day with her at SPOONS in the near future.
Sreyny proudly posing in front of SPOONS Restaurant.
Neat’s Resilience
Neat, a student from our Pink Room and part of the REACH Role Models, has demonstrated incredible resilience. After facing personal hardships that led him to drop out of public school, Neat was enrolled in our Bridging Class to help him stay on track.
Despite his initial struggles to find a purpose, his unwavering motivation and dedication to attending REACH were commendable. He bravely opened up with our team about his concerns regarding his future, allowing our team to offer tailored support. When Haven Restaurant opened applications for their program, Neat attended their open day, where his eyes lit up, and his passion for becoming a chef became evident!
He successfully applied to their 1-year training program and is now about to start her journey in Haven. This opportunity marks a significant milestone in Neat’s journey toward a brighter future.
Neat about to start his new journey at Haven Restaurant.
These case studies underscore the importance of collaboration.
Working with other NGOs has been a crucial step in our strategy to find solutions that inspire and empower our students to reach their full potential.
By partnering with other causes that share our mission to break the poverty cycle through education, we can ensure that each student has the chance to succeed in their own way.
Thank you to Sala Baī, Spoons and Haven, for providing our students with these life-changing opportunities.
