(From L to R)The end of the ride – Jessie, Maeva, Susanna, Camilla, Kristy and Bec
And what an experience it was - a cycle challenge combined with three days working alongside a community to build a preschool.
The first six days were filled with early starts (to beat the heat), visits to breathtaking Angkor Watt and other amazing temples, riding through villages and rice fields and not to mention a few hairy times on major roads. But the intrepid team finished the 400 kilometre route covered in dust with a feeling of great satisfaction and accomplishment.
“It has felt wonderful seeing the first hand effect that raising money has on the communities in Cambodia” - Susanna
The preschool
However, it was the last three days spent in Roleang village, Kampong Speu building a preschool that was the highlight for the entire team. After briefing meetings with ActionAid Cambodia staff and also their local partner KDDF, the team had a real insight into the rights based program that is being implemented in the communities.
“An amazing experience, physically challenging and so incredibly rewarding” - Camilla
The children who came to watch us build each day
From women’s livelihood programs to education, KDDF focuses their work on the most vulnerable, disabled people, women and children. The days were spent bricklaying, rendering walls, mixing cement as well as playing with children, singing and getting the chance to spend time with the many children and locals who came to watch us work.
“My overall experience was fantastic. Nothing compares to the sense of personal achievement in completing a physical challenge as well as helping to improve the quality of life of another.” - Kristy
The team in front of the preschool
By working with the local community, everyone agreed that they had a real insight into how ActionAid works at the local level and makes a real difference to people’s lives. Communities are empowered to bring about change to their own lives. We hope to do another First Hand Experience soon, and we hope you can join us!
