Education for 300 Urban Poor Children

From Silence to Confidence: Sorya’s Journey of Growth

Sorya, an 18-year-old girl in grade 12, lives in Samaky 3 village, Khan Porsenchey, Phnom Penh. She is the daughter of Mr. Savoeun, a tuk-tuk driver, and Ms. Noeun, a housewife. Life had never been easy for her family. Her mother, with limited education and advanced age, struggled to work and provide for the household, while her father, with little schooling and no formal skills, earned a modest income driving his tricycle. The family faced constant financial difficulties, which limited Sorya’s access to English classes and extracurricular learning opportunities.

Sorya remembers the days when speaking up felt impossible. “I was always afraid to say anything,” she admits. “Even in class, I stayed quiet. I thought I would make mistakes, and everyone would laugh at me.” At home, her quiet nature sometimes drew concern from her parents. “We worked hard to give Sorya a better place to live,” her mother says, “but we had little knowledge or money to guide her education.”

Everything began to change in 2021, when Sunshine Cambodia Organization interviewed Sorya and selected her to join their youth program. For the first time, doors she had never imagined began to open. “I remember my first English class,” she recalls, smiling. “I couldn’t even introduce myself. But the teachers encouraged me to try, and slowly, I began to speak.”

The support of SCO extended beyond Sorya herself. Her family received regular food assistance, and her parents joined the Mother’s Club program, learning about family budgeting and the importance of education. “I realized I had been limiting her without knowing it,” her father reflects. “Now we encourage her to study, to dream, to be brave.”

Before joining the program, Sorya’s shyness affected her at school, in English classes, and at home. She avoided speaking, fearing mistakes or judgment from others. “Before, I was afraid of people,” she admits. “I didn’t dare to go out much and often stayed alone.” Since she regularly participates in the youth club, dramatic changes have occurred. “I used to hide in the corner,” she says. “Now, I speak in class, share my thoughts at home, and even participate in community events.” Her confidence grew as she attended meetings at the Sangkat Tropaing Krasaing with local authorities, imagining herself making a difference. “I thought, maybe one day, I can do this too,” she whispers, eyes shining.

Education on children’s rights and lessons on mindset gave Sorya a new voice and perspective. “I learned that I can speak about my health, my studies, and my dreams. I have rights, and my thoughts matter,” she says firmly. These lessons transformed her from a shy, negative-minded girl into a determined, positive student. She improved her academic ranking from 20th to 15th and became more engaged in learning, group work, and youth activities.

Today, Sorya dreams of becoming a soldier. She balances her studies with reading, helping at home, and actively participating in youth programs. “I never thought I could be this brave,” she says. “But now I want to face challenges, not hide from them.” Her mother proudly adds, “She talks openly about her health, studies, and problems. She has grown into a confident, courageous young woman.”

Ms. Chenda, a staff member of SCO, has also witnessed Soriya's transformation. “Before joining the club, Sorya was shy and quiet,” said Chenda, a program staff member. “Now she participates in all activities of the program, answers questions confidently, and helps with club work. Her courage and engagement have grown remarkably.”

Sorya’s journey shows how consistent support, education, and awareness of rights can transform fear into courage, silence into voice, and untapped potential into a hopeful future.