From Vision to Reality: Celebrating Our New Home

My name is Sophal (pseudonym). I am 22 years old now. I study IT at Build Bright University in Battambang. CFI supported me with the university fees for 4 years.

After I graduated from high school, I faced a difficult situation. I had the dream of continuing my studies at university, but I didn’t have the money to do it. My family are farmers, and we live a very simple life. Our income is just enough to cover daily needs like food and basic expenses. University costs - such as tuition fees, books, and living costs - were far beyond what we could afford. I felt hopeless and worried that I would have to give up on my goal of getting a higher education.

Everything changed when I received a scholarship. This scholarship has completely changed my life. It covers my university tuition and some of the other important costs related to my education. Because of it, I was able to enroll in university without asking my family to take on a burden they couldn’t carry. This opportunity has helped me focus on my studies without the constant stress of worrying about money.

The scholarship has done more than just help me financially. It gave me hope. It reminded me that there are people and organizations out there who believe in helping students like me. It made me believe in myself more, and it motivates me to study harder. I feel a strong responsibility to do well, not only for myself, but also to honor the support I have received.

Now, I’m focused on learning as much as I can so I can one day give back to my family and my community. I want to use my education to make a difference and help others, especially students who come from farming or low-income families like mine. I know how hard it is to want an education but not have the means to get one.

I’m deeply thankful for the scholarship that gave me this chance. It opened the door to a better future. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I hope that one day, I can help others in the same way, and be part of giving hope to the next generation.

I just graduated with my degree in June 2026. Now I am an intern and working on IT support  at Safe space Battamabang and DONTA studio. I also have a plan to continue to get a master's degree in IT. I am looking for a scholarship.