Visiting Volunteers Testimonies – Summer09

French:

“Entering the gate of Sok Sabay Association is entering a haven of peace. In the courtyard and the garden, children play, laughing and friendly, and it’s hard to imagine how painful a past most of them have. I have had the opportunity to teach them the rudiments of French for one month. A very rewarding pedagogic experience because it was necessary to adapt to students of all ages and all levels, which is not always easy when one is used to teach to university students.

But the most important thing is undoubtedly the incredible strength of the link that was immediately established with most of them: it nurtures the soul of one who agrees to give one’s time to these children and these young persons. It is so hard to leave, but one certainty hope that one may once again enter the gate of the new Sok Sabay home in Phnom Penh…”

Philippe (French teacher in a Private Junior High School in St Malo – France)

English:

“The first time I heard about Sok Sabay was from a first hand account by one of my mother’s friends. She described a country and community so unimaginable and wonderful from the one I live in and the lives of children so different from my own. When I saw a video of the works of Sok Sabay I decided to spend my summer there. I have often traveled with my family, but for a long time I have wanted to go somewhere alone and have the chance to live there and get to know the place and people; and here I am. I have been working in Sok Sabay for 6 weeks now and have loved every day! I am teaching English to the children in small groups according to age. With the older groups we have chosen topics to talk about and they have been teaching me as much about their society, culture and history as I have about mine; I have learnt so much from them.

I love being with the younger children, they are always so excited and cheerful and I can tell (as with all the Sok Sabay children) how much they want to learn. I also love spending time with them either in class of outside class: drawing or watching their beloved Mr. Bean! Because Sok Sabay is a small organization it means that all the children are given the full help and attention they need and I have been able to get to know them all so well. They are so open and loving and have made me feel so welcome in their home.”

Julia (student, 20 years old)