Channa’s Story

Channa reflects on her journey with PeopleStories, from childhood struggles to resilience, inspired by hope and determination...

When I think about my journey, it's hard to believe how much has changed since I first started with the PeopleStories School for Life program six years ago. My name is Channa, and I'd like to share my story with you.

I was raised by my grandmother in a small village in Cambodia. My parents left me with her because they had to work far away. My grandmother did her best to give me everything, she sometimes sells goods at the market to earn money.  Life was difficult sometimes.

When I was young I was quiet, but I always believed in hope. That hope grew when I met Victoria in our village. She inspired me to speak up and have dreams. But dreams are not easy. Last year, after working really hard with my school work, I still didn't pass my high school exams. 
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The news was so sad. I cried for days, was I good enough?

I was lucky, I found my strength. I made the decision to do Grade 12 again. This almost never happens in Cambodia, but I believed in myself and knew I had to try. It was not easy, there was not much money and the village people were looking at me. This gave me stress. I felt guilty for doing it, but I knew I had to succeed.

During this hard time, the women in my life are my strength. My grandmother, my mother, and my aunt, they are my role models and inspirations.  They want me to succeed.

My dream is to become a teacher. I want to inspire young children. Education is the key to being better. This is what school taught me. And I believe.
This month was International Women's Day, my school promotes gender equality and empowers female students like me. My dream for Cambodia is to give all women access to education.
The most important lesson I've learned is to never give up. No matter how many times we fail. PeopleStories gave me a chance and Cirrus, my dear sponsor, has helped me through all the hard times. I can’t thank you enough for all the help, love and support.

With Channa’s story of strength, we got in touch with supporter Cirrus from Hong Kong who has been supporting Channa since 2017.  
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Cirrus spoke with emotions, “I feel sad for the children in rural villages who cannot afford to go to school due to poverty. In 2017, I learned about the PeopleStories scholarship program and was glad to be able to support Channa to complete school. I believe in fate and perhaps Channa and I are destined to have this precious connection.”

We wondered what would be a precious message from Cirrus to Channa and she shared, “What a brave girl you are, Channa! Although you failed the examination last year, your courage is amazing and exceptional.  I wish you all the best, Channa!” 

Do you want to join Cirrus to make a difference?  Here is your opportunity to make a real impact: https://bit.ly/Donate_PS2024

Story written by: Volunteer Caroline Van ‘t Hoff