Charlyn Chu's Testimony (Co-Leader and Volunteer of Dec 2014 Trip)
I had never though that organizing an overseas volunteering trip would be such a life-changing experience for me. This first overseas volunteering trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia in December 2014 was a significant and life-altering milestone in my life.
The team as we were preparing to depart from Singapore.
The idea to organize an overseas volunteering trip came up naturally. It happened one day when I was discussing with my parents on it. I have been to Hope School at least twice now, and was toying with the idea of bringing a small group there. Since I doubted that I had the ability to do this alone, the first person I thought to rope in was Jamie. Her past overseas volunteering experiences would definitely be a great help and contribution, and it was definitely so. Despite being family (Jamie’s my cousin), we had to thrash out many disagreements, debates and discussions. Sorting out the structure and flow of the whole trip was also a very new experience for us both.
Our planning for the trip.
But thankfully, we managed to solve our differences and work together towards a common goal. Looking back, I can see that we have both grown in maturity and appreciation of our differences and similarities.
Jamie and I during the graduation ceremony.
The travel companions will either make or break a trip. Thankfully, the people of this trip made a huge difference and impact in me. The first group was the volunteers. I never expected others to be interested in this trip, and so was pleasantly surprised and encouraged when Sofia and Riyin expressed their interest to be part of this first trip! Jacquelyn’s interest in the trip also adds onto my encouragement. I can never be sufficiently thankful for the great teamwork and helpfulness of each member in this trip. Even though we may not know each other well, we worked seamlessly together and shared the burdens with one another. There were many times when we had to switch roles on the spot and helped one another out especially when the number of hands was not enough. It was really fun and memorable to work, play and serve with this group of friends. It is certainly a joy when like-minded people come together in unity for a common goal.
Wefie!
The next group was the sponsors and donors! The generosity that came in to support this trip and its goals were very encouraging! There were many generous people who had contributed greatly to this trip. Let me personally thank everyone who had contributed in money or in kind for this trip:
- Cactus Press Badges Company: thank you so much for your generous discount on the graduation badges and donations of the pens.
- Sofia: thank you for the generous sponsorship of the bottles of kaya, the candy canes and the cost of the graduation badges.
- Mr and Mrs Yin Kok Kong: thank you for the generous donation of the paint materials and sponsorship of 1 banner.
- Jacquelyn: thank you for the lovely creation and artwork of the 3 beautiful banners to the school, the great effort of tying the ribbons to the graduation badges and the amazing design of the graduation badges.
- Mrs Wee: thank you for the sponsorship of the stationery to the teachers
- Mr Freddy Chew: thank you for the sponsorships of the biscuits for refreshments
- Mr Sebastian Chu: thank you for the sponsorship of the milo powder and bottles of kaya
- Mr Kent Chong: thank you for your assistance
- Anonymous donor: thank you for the sponsorship of 1 banner.
The donations and sponsors from all the abovementioned people. THANK YOU!
The third group was the students of Hope School. We had the privilege to teach all the classes of Hope School for one day. This was my first time teaching a classroom full of students, and even though I felt so incompetent to teach since I never liked teaching or was good with children, their quiet enthusiasm and eagerness to learn English changed me deeply. Their efforts to try their best and give all they can were very encouraging and touching.
Group photo with 1 of the classes
I am reminded of how many opportunities we have here in Singapore in all areas of our lives. The easy access of education and the efforts of the government to ensure that all Singaporeans (at least in the recent years) have at least a primary school education bring comfort and security to my heart. I am truly thankful for it. And because of this, it spurs me on to provide that opportunity to the students of Hope School too. I may not be able to give the same amount of opportunities that I have had in Singapore, but at least I can try to bridge that gap and make it smaller.
Co-teaching a class with Riyin
The students were not the only one who has encouraged me. The next group was the educators! The teachers – Arun and Thon – are amazing people! I have never met people who are so compassionate and passionate about educating the next generations to make sure that they have the best opportunities for their future! Thon is an amazing teacher – teaching 7 to 8 classes daily for 5 days a week!
Thon assisting with a classroom session
All the classes are of different levels but he is able to do it competently and exceptionally well! His simple banter and rapport with his students allow him to build lasting friendships with them while garnering their respect at the same time.
Teacher Thon busy preparing for the graduation ceremony
Arun is also another amazing person! Juggling his career while helping to ensure the smooth running of Hope School is not an easy job! And his passion and compassion humbles and encourages me greatly. They really serve with no agenda, except to empower the next generation with a better grasp of the English language through the love of Christ.
Arun helping to facilitate and translate during a classroom session.
Vansan and Arun in a candid shot
Pastor Vansan… Man, he is a great inspiration! Every time I go back to Cambodia, I always look forward to seeing him! He is like my Cambodian uncle! His humility and sincerity provided a sense of protection for the volunteers, especially with 3 of us who have never volunteered in Hope School before.
Pastor Vansan assisting with a classroom session
His playfulness is very infectious; you cannot help but have fun along with him! His heart for his people, especially the children and youths brings out the paternal love in him. I can see and feel the genuineness in everything that he does. That is why he is one of my role models in life.
Pastor Vansan having a fun time with Jamie and Riyin posing as crocodiles.
The other great memory of the trip is the honor to give a speech to the first graduating class. Initially, I was scared stiff. I doubted my ability to give a speech. After all, I was just a volunteer!
During my speech at the graduation ceremony.
But as the days drew near, I realized that this was an opportunity to share and impart a part of who I am and who we are as Singaporeans and fellow friends of Hope School. I am humbled and honored to be given such an opportunity to be part of the special event.
Me and the graduating students
Looking back, this trip was full of firsts. First time organizing and co-leading such a team. First time teaching a class of students. First time as a special guest for a school event. First time giving a speech. On the personal level, I grew so much more as a person – in compassion, empathy, respect and dignity to people. I also grew in my skills – conflict resolution, teamwork, leadership, people management, communication skills and much more. The world is now not just seen in simple tones but now in many different levels – as a service provider, volunteer, coordinator, liaison person, leader, peer, teacher and friend. This first trip may have been filled with many mistakes, uncertainties and difficulties but it has left a deep mark in my life. The teachers, students and volunteers of Hope School and my friends have remarkably changed me. I cannot wait to go back to visit my Cambodian friends, my family.
My Cambodian friends, family and memories of 2014.