As my three-year journey with REACH Siem Reap comes to a close, I’m filled with gratitude and pride for what the organisation has collectively achieved. Quite often, I find myself shocked at how much I have grown in my role, but even more so with how much REACH has grown in strengthening our services and programmes. As I prepare to move on, I want to reflect on the profound impact I’ve seen and the connections I’ve built.
When I first walked into the gates of REACH in 2022, I was surprised – surprised at how beautiful and vibrant the centre looked. With how REACH has expanded now, I genuinely wish I could experience seeing it for the first time again. It’s a place that immediately sparks joy and curiosity.
My role in the Communications department has been such a unique experience. To be given the privilege of telling the organisation’s story to the outside world has become a genuine passion of mine. In this role, I haven’t just shared stories, I’ve witnessed them unfold, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally alongside the organisation.
One of my favourite memories at REACH has to be the 2023 Side by Side event, and seeing it in action with my own eyes. It was my first-ever time planning a campaign, so I was truly so excited that we’d been able to get 44 of our students sponsored on the event.
A REACH Side by Side champion with is grandmother at the 2023 finish line.
44 youths had taken on the challenge of 200km, and seeing them ride through the finish line to their peers, teachers and their family cheering them on was such an emotional experience. I remember seeing one of the smallest 12 year olds I’d ever seen cycling in, jump off his bike and run crying into his grandmother’s arms in disbelief that he’d just completed 200km. This was my realisation of the impact we’re making on our students. And fast forward 2 years later, our Outreach team saw, hanging in her home, his 2023 Side by Side certificate.
I truly believe the most inspiring aspects of my time here has been seeing the growth and development of our local team. Over the past three years, it’s been inspiring to see my colleagues grow into strong, independent leaders. They’ve embraced every challenge, honed their skills, and taken on increasing responsibility with remarkable enthusiasm.
As we all grew alongside each other, the journey allowed us to learn from and support each other.
My departure now marks an exciting milestone for REACH Siem Reap. When REACH first opened its doors, we had 15 team members, 80% of whom were local. As I leave, we have grown to a team of 43, with 95% of staff being local. This growth shows that the, daily operations and long-term vision are now firmly in the hands of a team that deeply understands the community’s needs.
The REACH Team helping prepare food during the 2024 Graduation.
This is such a profound testament to the REACH team’s unwavering commitment and hard work, and REACH’s commitment to local empowerment. It means that strategic daily operations, and long-term vision are now firmly in the hands of a team that understands the community’s needs.
I am incredibly proud to have seen their journey towards greater autonomy, as they continue to drive REACH’s mission of poverty alleviation. Watching them gain independence has filled me with confidence for REACH’s future.
Our local efforts are amplified by the amazing network of supporters we’ve grown over the years, and working in Communications has allowed me to witness this first-hand. It’s been heartwarming to connect with an incredible group of people worldwide who believe in REACH’s vision. Our work here in Siem Reap might feel local, but the support for our community is global.
Over the years I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of our supporters here in Siem Reap and I’ve always been so moved by their genuine compassion and dedication to our community. It has been an absolute privilege to have been in a role that connected these generous people with the vital work happening on the ground here. Every message of encouragement and every donation has directly translated into tangible opportunities for our students and families, showing the powerful impact of this global family.
More specifically, I’ve been extremely moved by the dedication and commitment of REACH’s international advisory board. In my role, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with industry experts who have a genuine passion and drive for REACH. A handful were already so committed to the organization before ever even visiting Cambodia. Through their advocacy and support of our efforts to grow as an organisation, I’ve learned so many valuable lessons and I believe this contributed to my own growth as well.
REACH Siem Reap Advisory Board Member, volunteering at the end of the 2024 Ride to REACH
Beyond the incredible team and our global supporters, being deeply immersed in the lives of the students and families has been an endless source of joy and motivation. While my role in communications often kept me in the office, being constantly surrounded by the children at the centre was a daily reminder of why we do what we do.
It’s so easy to forget the hardships that these children are facing when they walk through the gates of REACH because they are always beaming with joy, hungry to learn, and a little cheeky with their friends.
While I’m not in the classrooms, I’ve seen our students grow in so many aspects that I quite often find myself getting emotional. From the moment they walk through our doors, sometimes shy, to seeing them confidently participate in class or take their first steps towards a career, every milestone is a cause for celebration. Their enthusiasm for learning and their embrace of every opportunity is heartwarming.
My journey with REACH Siem Reap began just as the school opened at full capacity three years ago. The growth has been phenomenal. We’ve supported so many families and students, expanding our reach and deepening our impact. It’s brilliant that we are now actively supporting students in pursuing tertiary education, whether through vocational training or university pathways. This is a monumental step forward, preparing them for independent and fulfilling lives.
REACH Youth during her evening English classes, giving an oral presentation.
Looking ahead, my biggest hope for REACH is to see the organisation achieve a complete cycle of sustainability. We’ve made incredible strides in localising leadership, and I hope this commitment extends to every facet of the organisation, ensuring its long-term viability and impact.
My time at REACH Siem Reap has been an incredible immersion into a community with a shared vision for a brighter future. As I move on to my next chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for every experience, every lesson, and every profound impact I’ve had the joy of witnessing first-hand. I know that REACH Siem Reap is in the most capable hands, led by an inspiring local team who will continue to make an extraordinary difference. I can’t wait to see all the amazing things they will achieve.