Reaksa’s Story

Reaksa faced indescribable challenges, but she remained strong and resilient...

My name is Reaksa, and I want to tell you my story. I come from a small village in Siem Reap, Cambodia. My family didn't have much money, but they always tried their best to take care of me.

When I was in grade 7, I got a scholarship from PeopleStories. It was a big help because it meant I could go to school even though my family couldn't afford it.

Then, something sad happened. During Covid, I ran away from home. I was only 15 years old. I met a boy, and we fell in love. But then I found out I was going to have a baby. My family helped us get married, but it was hard. We had to leave school because we needed to work to take care of our family. 
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My husband started working at a construction site when he was only 16. But then, something terrible happened. My husband fell from a high place at the construction site and died. I was only 15, and our baby hadn't even been born yet. I felt so sad and guilty about what happened.

For a while, I didn't want to see anyone. I was too sad. But when our baby girl was born, I knew I had to be strong for her. I wanted to go back to school and make a better life for us. It wasn't easy. People said mean things about me, and we didn't have much money.  But PeopleStories continuously helped us, and I was able to go back to school.

​Now, I'm in my final year of high school, and I'm so proud of how far I've come. Sabine and her family from Germany have been sponsoring me through PeopleStories, and I'm so grateful to them.

My mom, mother-in-law, sister, and aunt also inspired me to keep going. They're strong women, and I want to be like them. I have two dreams: “I want to be a teacher and a nurse. I want to help people and make a difference in the world.”

I am proud that my school promotes gender equality, and they give girls like me lots of opportunities. In Cambodia, there are also other programs to help empower women and girls.
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If I could wish for anything for all the women in Cambodia, it would be for them to be successful and happy, without any violence in their lives. The most important lesson I've learned is to think carefully before making decisions. Sometimes our feelings can lead us the wrong way.

To Jasmina and her family, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means everything to me. I wish you all the happiness and success in the world. Thank you for believing in me.

With Reaksa’s moving story, we got in touch with supporter Jasmina and her family. 

​Jasmina shared with much deep thoughts, “We were deeply moved by Reaksa's story and how she kept going despite facing tough times. After visiting the school and meeting her in 2019, it became clear that supporting her was the right choice. Believing in the power of education to make a difference, we were inspired by PeopleStories' work and eagerly decided to contribute to Reaksa's journey toward her dreams.

Jasmina further wanted to give this precious message to Reaska, “Your journey of resilience and determination as a young mother and student is truly inspiring. Despite facing immense challenges, your perseverance shines through as you pursue your dreams. Keep believing in yourself, because your strength and courage serve as inspiration for all of us. Best wishes and all the luck in the world as you strive to achieve your dreams.” 
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Do you want to join Jasmina and her family 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