Two weeks of inspiration

I came to SSF because I wanted to get involved with the cause that Vichetr is fighting for, and to get in touch with Cambodian people off the tourist track. I have had that, and much more, working and living with Vichetr, SSF founder and executive director, his family and his organization.

From day one I felt at home, surrounded by friendly staff and welcoming students.

I worked on computer maintenance with Chheav, the computer assistant, and Vern, a 20-year-old student living at SSF. Both of them were very keen learners and grateful to share knowledge with others.

You might think two weeks is too short to accomplish anything, but, in that amount of time, I not only reinforced concepts introduced by a previous Basque volunteer, more importantly, I made two very good friends. Inspired by our interest in computers, our friendship will endure far longer than my short stay, and allow us to find new ways to cooperate.

Because I'm not fluent in English, I didn’t teach formal classes at SSF. Regardless, the students were always eager to talk and learn new things. They even took me and Asha, another volunteer, on a bike trip to a nearby mountain. The only regret I have about my time at SSF (besides it being too short!) is working so hard that I didn't have enough time to spend with the students.  

No less rewarding than being around the students was working with other dedicated volunteers. Despite being young, they were all well-travelled with rich and interesting life experiences.

Then there was time spent with Vichetr. He shared with me his amazing vision and took me to the villages to visit the people SSF works with, showing me first-hand how their lives have changed.    By: Félix Alonso Alonso