A word from our CEO: our roof appeal was a huge success!

Unfortunately, Cambodia hasn’t been able to contain its COVID numbers. Infection rates are now approaching 1000 per day and the death toll is on the rise. The Cambodian Government has placed substantial restrictions on movement, schools and universities remain closed, and mandatory vaccination has now been introduced in certain sectors. COVID certainly has presented more than its fair share of challenges for all our students and staff. Our in-country Director, Malinda, and her 2 babies contracted the virus, but I am extremely happy and very relieved to report they are recovering well.   

Many of you would also be aware of the “roof appeal” to repair water damage issues at our Graduation House Complex.    

The great news is that, with your help, the fundraising target has been fully reached. What an amazing team effort! 

It means, together with funds from a generous grant from the USA, we will be able not only to resolve the water damage to both rear buildings but get started on similar water damage to the walls of building 1. Problems with water are a constant battle in countries like Cambodia where torrential rain is frequent and buildings aren’t usually designed to meet those challenges. But our repair and rectification work at GH should see our buildings become more water-tight.

I must say I never cease to be amazed by the selfless support of the Awareness Cambodia “family”, particularly during these extraordinary times. My personal thanks go out to everyone who has played their part in making this possible. I am thrilled that the repair work is under way. 

So, on behalf of all our students, staff, Kim and myself, once again a heartfelt thank you to each of you; our much-valued partners and friends.  

Dr Gary Hewett, CEO/Founder

Watch the VIDEO to see how Awareness Cambodia is changing lives for the better.
Education brings lasting change!

Meet 2 of our Sunshine House “sisters”

At Awareness Cambodia we think of all our students and staff as “family”. And we love sharing the stories of the “brothers” and “sisters” that have grown up at Sunshine House and how they are making the most of the opportunities being in our Child Development programs has offered. We are so proud of how far they have come – and excited for what the future holds for them!

Today, the bright, beautiful and bubbly 20-year-old is living at Graduation House in Phnom Penh and studying law at a local university.

A popular student and housemate, Nari completed her first year of study earlier this year. COVID-19 restrictions mean she no longer travels to the campus by bicycle, as she had done previously, but attends classes virtually – online, using the great facilities at Graduation House.  

Friendly, responsible and always willing to help out (especially with the cooking), the 16-year-old is currently in year 9 and studying at a private school in Kompong Speu province while living at Sunshine House.

Excelling in her studies, Srey Touc brings home impressive grades in Khmer Language, Chemistry, Morality, Physics, Biology and Mathematics. She took out 2nd place in her class this year. Although the school is currently closed due to COVID, this ambitious young woman is dedicated to her online studies. Awareness Cambodia makes it possible for Srey Touc to actively engage in the online classes by supplying all the equipment and resources she needs.

But it isn’t all about study, Srey Touc is also a keen footballer and loves to play with her friends. And she has a lot of friends, because she is generous and kind!

It’s attributes like those that will help Srey Touc become a great doctor – which is her dream. She says she wants to help ill people in her community. We have no doubt she will do just that – and we will be there to support her along the way.