Changing Perspectives and Personal Development through Community Volunteer Work
Meet Pha Lyka, a Hope Group Volunteer for Child Monitoring shared that:
In the past, my lack of experience and immature mindset instilled a sense of fear within me. I perceived myself as lacking knowledge and doubted my own abilities, which contributed to a negative self-image and nervousness around kids. The failures I encountered in my environment made me exceedingly shy, hindering my ability to communicate effectively with my peers, as I preferred to remain quiet and had few friends. I was not fond of the huddled environments, which limited my opportunities to engage in my studies, resulting in experiencing a gradual learning process.
However, my involvement in a project with FH marked a turning point. I participated in various initiatives, including the children’s club, child forum including child’s rights, and activities focused on child safeguarding, hygiene, and environmental awareness. I learned about the significance of education, proper hygiene practices, and the importance of caring for our surroundings. Additionally, I took part in efforts to raise awareness against dengue fever and engaged in planting seeds and seedlings. In early 2024, I volunteered to monitor and support children, while also attending training sessions on volunteer roles and responsibilities, leadership, children’s rights, facilitation skills, book management at children’s clubs, photography, and reply letter writing.
These experiences, coupled with the encouragement from the FH staff, empowered me to embrace my role as a volunteer. I gained confidence and engaged in numerous activities that were previously unfamiliar to me. I learned to visit children and their families, capturing moments through photography and reply letters. I even took on leadership roles during training sessions and meetings, fostering effective communication with my peers and, notably, with young children. My academic performance has improved significantly; I now study diligently, maintain my study schedule, and actively participate in presentations and library reading.
I have established a clear goal for my future: I aspire to become a doctor to support my family and contribute to the education and healthcare of others in my community.