Ending trafficking before it begins in Cambodia

Nita's Journey with AusCam

Nita never imagined that a social media competition would help shape the course of her future.

Originally from Siem Reap, Nita moved to Phnom Penh to pursue her university studies. Like many young people navigating life in a new city, she was searching for opportunities to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Her connection with AusCam Freedom Project began through an online awareness campaign designed to engage young people in conversations about online safety and exploitation. After participating in a social media competition, she became curious about AusCam's work and started following the organisation. What seemed like a small interaction would ultimately become the beginning of a much larger journey.

Not long afterwards, Nita saw an opportunity to apply for a role as a Computer Course Peer Mentor with AusCam.  Although she initially doubted whether she had enough experience, encouragement from staff gave her the confidence to take a chance and apply.

That decision opened the door to new opportunities.

As a Peer Mentor, Nita helped young women develop practical digital skills while also supporting them to understand online safety and the risks of online exploitation. Along the way, she strengthened her own skills in facilitation, communication, and leadership. Determined to grow, she continually challenged herself to learn new tools, improve her teaching methods, and become a stronger mentor for the girls she supported.

Within months, Nita joined AusCam's Girls Leadership Council (GLC), where she continues to serve today as Finance Officer. Through training, mentoring, and leadership opportunities, she has grown into a confident advocate for girls' safety and wellbeing.

Over the years, Nita has travelled to communities across Cambodia, helping raise awareness about online child sexual exploitation and supporting the creation of safe spaces where girls can learn, connect, and thrive. She has also developed valuable skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving—skills that continue to benefit her both personally and professionally.

For Nita, one of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been the sense of community she found through AusCam. She speaks warmly of the friendships, encouragement, and sisterhood that have helped shape her into the leader she is today.

Reflecting on her journey, Nita says:

"I started as a Peer Mentor, but I became more - a lifelong learner, a Girls Leadership Council member, and a sister who uplifts others."

Today, Nita is helping create the same opportunities for other girls that once inspired her. Her story demonstrates the long-term impact of prevention and empowerment—showing how a single moment of engagement can grow into leadership, advocacy, and lasting change for entire communities.

Sreypich, a 19-year-old from Phnom Penh, lives with her grandmother and aunt after her parents’ divorce. Her mother works in Malaysia, and the family’s finances are strained. With a grandmother who cannot work and an aunt with children to care for, basic needs ,and the cost of education, were out of reach. A neighbor told her about AusCam, and she reached out via our Freedom Line in 2019. “I see the light when I come to AusCam. I have hope, and I hope that my life will get better, that I will finish school, and that I will have a safe job,” she shared.

Before joining AusCam, Sreypich faced daily barriers: only one school uniform, a 7–8 kilometer walk to school each day, and scarce books or study materials. With almost no money for snacks or extra classes, she often struggled to keep up. When AusCam learned of her situation, we stepped in with essential support, starting with a bicycle to help her travel safely to school. The bicycle was a lifeline—until it was stolen from their vulnerable rental home near unsafe areas marked by gang activity and drug problems. The loss hit hard, as the bicycle was her only reliable means to attend classes.

COVID-19 worsened the family’s already fragile situation. The aunt’s family faced repeated food insecurity and rent challenges, while her mother’s health deteriorated and medical expenses drew funds away from Sreypich’s needs. Yet, through it all, AusCam remained by her side, ensuring she had enough food and ongoing educational access. Sreypich recalls, “AusCam is there for me. They keep me safe and support my schooling.”

With AusCam’s support, Sreypich flourished academically. She earned top marks in her class and could study with a proper uniform and essential materials that strengthened her focus and energy. In Grade 12, as she prepared for the national exam, she faced a serious health challenge: gallstones requiring surgery. The cost of surgical diagnosis and care posed a heavy burden. AusCam helped by covering part of the examination costs, easing the financial strain on her grandmother and aunt, who secured a free surgery at a state hospital along with room and medications.

Our social workers maintained regular check-ins during this critical period, supporting Sreypich for the national exam three months away. Despite a week in hospital and a month of rest, she stayed determined. She ultimately passed the national exam, and her relief and gratitude were palpable. Beyond grades, the experience strengthened her health, resilience, and sense of possibility.

Today, Sreypich is a first-year university student studying Accounting. She is committed to hard work and aims to secure a stable job to support her grandmother and, one day, bring her mother home to Cambodia.

Your generosity makes stories like Sreypich’s possible. Donations cover uniforms, books, and essential study materials, as well as exams, medical care, transportation, school fees, and life-skills training that empower her toward higher education and financial independence. Sreypich’s journey illustrates what happens when a girl is believed in and supported, translating hardship into opportunity.

With your continued partnership, more girls can turn adversity into achievement and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.

** Every image and story shared here is used with consent and care. We honour the dignity, agency, and courage of the girls and young women who have trusted us with their stories.