Tay Riyin's Testimony (Volunteer of Dec 2014 trip)
Riyin, Jamie and Sofia at the arrival area of Siem Reap International Airport. (from left to right)
When Jamie asked if I wanted to go on this volunteer trip organised by her and her cousin (Charlyn), I agreed without hesitation as my previous volunteer trip to Bandung with her which was of a similar nature was very enriching and fulfilling. Hence I trust that this trip will be as well. I must admit that the sentiments I gathered from this trip was not as overwhelming as that of the previous trip, given that this is not the first experience that I had. Nonetheless there are still new reflections and inspiration.
When we first stepped into Hope School, the students welcomed us warmly. They were happy and curious to have us. Although they were not proficient in English, the students tried their best to express themselves using English in order to communicate with us.
Riyin and Charlyn were teaching a class of younger students.
Group photo taken together after a class of teaching!
They participated actively during the lessons. Even though facilities and resources were limited, it did not deter their desire and willingness to learn.
They laboured over the worksheets we gave them even though lights were dim.
Students attending evening class.
A student participating in the class activity prepared by Jamie and Riyin.
The students were also very sensible. They recognized the importance of education and wanted to study hard in order to find a well-paying job to provide for their family.
The Chinese saying of ‘活到老, 学到老’ definitely applies to the students of Hope School.
Riyin and Jamie with the final evening class.
Asking the class if they knew Singapore's location on the map.
Regardless of age, they were so eager and enthusiastic to learn. Even Pastor Vansan sat down with them and started taking notes!
A candid moment of Arun and Pastor Vansan.
I was also awed by the passion of the teaching staff of Hope School (Pastor Vansan, Principal Arun and Teacher Thon). Human resource was limited and each of them had to put in extra time and effort to teach the students. Although it was tiring, they were very passionate about teaching and never once gave up the thought of teaching the students.
Teacher Thon connected so well with his students on a personal level, he was like a friend to them as well. That was such a rare sight.
Teacher Thon with his class.
The final evening class group photo shot.
I am thankful for the teammates (Charlyn, Jamie, Jacquelyn and Sofia) that I had for this trip. Although the team was small, we were still able to deliver what was planned. Everyone was very easy going. We looked out and covered for one another.
The first volunteer group photo in Siem Reap!
Volunteer group photo taken while heading out for lunch.
What was amazing was that although I did not know everyone in the team prior to this trip, we shared similar opinions about what a sustainable and meaningful volunteer trip should be like.
Our objectives were aligned and that was instrumental in making this trip a success, both for the students and staff of Hope School as well as for us.
Group photo with Pastor Vansan, Arun and Thon (first row, from left to right)
Life is a continuous learning journey. The students, teaching staff of Hope School and my teammates have taught me a lot on this trip. To be able to end 2014 with this trip was definitely very rewarding and meaningful. I am grateful for this opportunity and if I have the opportunity again in the future, I would definitely want to return to Hope School to see how it has grown and matured.
A polaroid photo of Jamie, Pastor Vansan and a group of students. (top row, left to right).