Volunteer Teaching to Buddhist Monks in Cambodia

I joined GVI on a 3 month program! I am so glad I chose the 3 months because even after that time I still wanted to extend. Each program is incredibly well coordinated by Helena and even outside of the program there was always fun activities and day trips that we got to enjoy! Theary is fantastic, she made sure that everyone was accommodated for and got to fully enjoy their experience! Lon and Yothea bring such a wonderful element to the program being ex monks and I personally thoroughly enjoyed talking to them about Buddhism.

This program has been nothing short of amazing. I originally signed up for just two weeks, but after a few days, I knew that wasn't nearly enough, so I ended up extending my stay! In such a short time, I gained so much confidence and developed a belief in myself that I'm capable of way more than I ever thought possible. (Even though it sounds cliche!!) The programs in Siem Reap are fantastic, and the staff really go above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly and that we feel well looked after. Everything GVI partners with in the city, from the restaurants to the excursions, is all about building a sustainable future, and it's inspiring to see the positive impact being made. There's a real sense of working alongside the community to build something meaningful. The area itself is beautiful, with so much to see and do, no matter the time of day. At 19, this was the perfect stepping stone between home and solo travel, giving me a safety net as I navigated a new culture. But now, I feel so much more ready to explore on my own. I've made lifelong friendships, not just with other volunteers but with locals and staff too. I'm leaving feeling super inspired and already looking into coming back in the future.

My name is Isabelle Elms, I'm from Hitchin in the UK and I'm 18 currently on my gap year. I have just finished my first 2 week volunteering program with GVI in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This program was called Making a Difference in Cambodia and included working with the local teachers to help teach English in community classes, primary schools and to Monks in the Pagodas! Two weeks was definitely not long enough. Upon arrival to a warm and friendly welcome, you immediately feel the sense of family between all the volunteers and staff. Although two weeks is not long I definitely felt that I'd contributed but also learnt so much from the amazing community in Siem Reap. The teachers were amazing and so helpful and the students were all eager to learn and always up for conversations and playing games!:) The timetable worked really well meaning we were back for the hottest part of the day and had time to explore the amazing activities in Siem Reap such as the Temples, Apopo rats, Lotus farms, cooking classes, yoga and so much more! I chose GVI through reading blogs that other students had posted about their gap year. GVI stood out as a safe and reliable NGO to go with and the programs sounded amazing! I also received a GVI grant because I applied for two projects which was so helpful and meant I could worry less and focus on the exciting new adventures that awaited me.