Cambodia Collaboration Immersion

Each year, a group of residents from Tommy embark on the Cambodia Collaboration Immersion trip, where they witness the resilience, strength, and joy of the local community despite the challenges they face. This experience fosters personal growth and deepens the connections between our residents and the people they meet, creating lasting memories.

Here’s a sneak peek of what Angus, Aaron, and Annabelle had to say about their journey.

“The pinnacle of the immersion, however, was the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon in Siem Reap. This event embodied everything our journey stood for—support, connection, and perseverance. Running alongside the children from the Arrupe Centre and cheering them on was more than a physical challenge; it was a celebration of resilience and friendship. Seeing the joy and pride on their faces made every step worthwhile and underscored the power of the bonds we had built throughout the immersion.” —Angus Bowles

“I came to Cambodia with hopes of bringing joy and happiness to the kids there, but I returned with so much more than what I had to give. I left with memories of their smiles and laughter; it was truly heartwarming. I also gained a fresh perspective on how little they had, yet they were so full and content with what they had. It was refreshing and a great awakening to how blessed we are.” — Aaron Santos

“Visiting the floating school, spending time with the kids at La Poloma, Lidy House, and Tahen was an emotional journey. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces as soon as we stepped off the bus was one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. Despite living with the bare minimum, their smiles were infectious. Their joy and gratitude for the simplest things really reminded me how often we take things for granted and taught me the value of appreciating what I have.” — Annabelle Reagan

To read more in detail, refer to page 20 in our 2024 Edition of The Utopian.