The big day arrives to see my sponsored child in Cambodia

Stories from our supporters, who manage to visit their sponsored child, always help to provide a flavour of what life is like in an ADP. In today's blog we are privileged to see photos and read the personal reflections from Linda's trip, where she met her sponsored child, Tora, in Cambodia. 

I recently had the privilege of going on a guided tour through Cambodia. Since I have been sponsoring a boy called Tora for the past eight years, I was hoping I would be able to meet him. Fortunately, I managed to arrange a visit to him when I was going to be closest to his community. 

Arriving 10 minutes early, my guide and driver greeted me warmly at my hotel and we set off for an adventure I never dreamed would take place.  Although travelling alone, I didn’t doubt that I was in safe hands with my new companions.

The Health Centre

Our first point of call on the journey from Phnom Penh to Tora’s community was to the Health Centre. No emergencies or births that day, but two newly born babies were receiving their vaccinations,  and careful records of mother and baby progress were shown to me by my guide. The thing that was most obvious was the wide smile on everyone's face – mothers and staff – and the pride taken in the facilities provided to the local community.

Child Club

Moving on to the preschool child club, youngsters were assembled in the playground, ready to greet me with a well practised song and dance.  Following them into their classroom, I was able to watch as they demonstrated hand hygiene, their knowledge of shapes and colours and indeed considerable skill at crayoning. There was little I could teach them about that! I was pleased to take my more familiar position at the front of the class and express my thanks for being allowed to join them before moving on to the highlight of my day.

Meeting with Tora and his family

Onward then on roads and over bridges maintained by World Vision, passing several ox carts, we reached a clearing that accommodates the Area Development Programme (ADP) office. My guide had explained that Tora had taken an exam that morning. He was demonstrating academic ability, following the national curriculum and hoping to train as a teacher.

The staff explained to me that the number of pupils passing grade 12 was increasing yearly and, in addition to his studies, Tora was helping with his local kids club. The urgency of Phnom Penh where he would have to train seemed a world away from this quiet location to which he is accustomed.  But such progress has been made in this humbling and innovative country – his dream just could become a reality.

Freshly arriving from his exam, with his parents already there, this handsome, smiling young man bounded towards my car, opening the door and greeting me like a long lost relative. His warmth and confidence were totally unexpected, as was the quiet smiling approval of his parents as he hugged me and shook my hand. They had taken a break from harvesting the rice. 

It was then a pleasure to meet the ADP staff, all of whom are proud of their roles in the organisation. Lunch was served from the kitchen which we all enjoyed. Tora's social skills were evident at the table. I felt proud of my boy!  Before I knew it, it was time for the farewells and a group photo including my travel companions and the local staff.

Reflection

Joining World Vision has given me a new dimension to my life. I knew little of the plights of the Cambodian people prior to my involvement. Having an organisation that actually identifies those in need, giving them the skills and tools they require to build meaningful lives, rather than just survive is such an asset and I am proud to be a sponsor.  Tora's cheeky smile and hopes for the future is a testimony to the contribution World Vision makes to people's lives.

Children are the 'fruits' of World Vision's work in a community, and it is fantastic to read about sponsored children, like Tora, thriving! Please feel free to comment on this blog on our Facebook page.