A journey full of heart

It has been such an amazing experience to witness how Save the Children and the IKEA Foundation have come together to ensure equal education for many marginalised children. The three schools we visited in the Pursat Province of Cambodia were the Toul Leap Primary School, O Tapoang Primary School and, lastly, the Talo Primary School. Each school was unique in its own way but the school that stuck out to me the most was the Talo Primary School!

It took us about an hour to get the Talo Primary school from our hotel. I was eager to arrive and, once I saw the outside of the school, I was so excited to enter. The school was so beautiful inside the classrooms and out. The principal, teachers, parents and the local community have so much pride in their school and are extremely invested in the quality of learning for all children who attend it.

The school is excelling in academic achievement and the students are learning at full capacity. Their studies include mathematics, social science, science, English and their native language, Khmer. Children with disabilities are also learning at the Talo primary school and the teacher works with the parents and students on a daily basis to ensure all needs are being met, for both the child and the families who care for them.

Despite the rough living conditions many of these children experience, they have such a positive outlook on life. They were so kind and loving, as we danced and played outdoor games together!

The most memorable moment at the Talo Primary school was when Lutfiyyah Bolden and I taught the children how to dance the Cupid Shuffle. The kids loved it and followed along!

The time I’ve spent here in Cambodia will stay with me forever and I will miss all my new friends that I’ve met along the way. I feel confident knowing that the children and families who are struggling in these rural areas of Cambodia will continue to receive the support they need to get a quality education through Save the Children and the IKEA Foundation.