OUEN TOLA

My name is Oeurn Tola. Before joining Global Children Cambodia, I was a child growing up in poverty, with limited access to education and often going without enough food. In 2012, my family could not afford to support my schooling. My father took me to stay at an organization in Siem Reap province where I studied until grade 6. Later, when the organization relocated, I had to move back to Prey Veng province. I persevered until I graduated from grade 12 in 2022. After finishing grade 12, I had to work 8 hours every day to earn money for my living expenses. After work, l attended university classes until 8 PM, then rode my bicycle 20 kilometers back and forth to my rented room every day.
One day, a teacher noticed my perseverance and advised me to apply to Global Children Cambodia. I was nervous because I was already a university student, which didn’t meet the usual selection criteria. But I bravely applied and was graciously accepted. Through GCC’s guidance and support, I studied until my third year and found a job that matched my skills. I want to express my deepest gratitude to GCC for making it possible for me to reach a point that I never imagined.