Stories - DARA Europe

English class in Cambodia: Nathanel’s impact in Stellar

“Speak out and don’t worry about mistakes, it’s all part of learning”

Nathanel is a 21-year-old who works as an English teacher in the Stellar Center. He’s been teaching there for more than a year now, since the beginning of the classes in the newly opened center, and it is his first job as an English teacher. The team that works in the center is an essential part of the program, so we are proud to introduce their faces to you.

A glimpse into the Stellar library – in conversation with the students

While visiting the Stellar Centre in Cambodia, DARA Europe volunteer Judith sat down with two students during their weekly library class to discuss their love for reading. As these students attend Stellar’s English classes, it became a great opportunity for them to practice speaking English themselves, which they handled very well. Their answers were honest, enthusiastic, and above all, inspiring. Their teacher, Kuntheak, also shared her experiences. Together, their stories show how books bring more than just knowledge—they bring joy, confidence, and personal growth.

Stronger together: the impact of social work in Andong

In Andong, social workers play a crucial role in the family support programs of SCCO, DARA Europe’s partner organization. With dedication and empathy, they help families grow stronger and contribute to building a close-knit, resilient community. They guide youth in self-help groups, coach adults, and provide micro-loans. In doing so, they break the vicious cycle of poverty and create opportunities for a better future. One of these dedicated social workers is Theary. In an openhearted conversation, she shares her experiences and shows how her work transforms lives.

A journey of learning and connection: Sokun’s visit to the Netherlands

This september marked an unforgettable milestone for Sokun who is one of the dedicated social workers in the SCCO team, our partner organization in Cambodia. Sokun has been part of SCCO as a social worker since 2018. She traveled to the Netherlands to attend a Youth Conference and meet DARA Europe volunteers. For her, it was more than a trip abroad. It was an opportunity to learn, to share and to return home with new inspiration for her work in Cambodia. It was also her very first time leaving Southeast Asia, making the journey both exciting and courageous.

A lifetime of giving: Tonny and her commitment to DARA Europe

Sometimes a story starts very simple. For Tonny de Jong (85), it began with Tirza, the founder of DARA Europe, for whom she was nanny (grandma) for many years. When Tirza turned eighteen, she went backpacking and ended up in Cambodia, where she volunteered in an orphanage. The stories she brought back stayed with Tonny.

Weekend class in Andong: A safe place to grow

Every Sunday morning, as Andong slowly begins to wake up, one of the classrooms at SCCO fills with the cheerful voices of children, games, and laughter. With the support of DARA Europe, a weekend class takes place: an inspiring initiative where children from the community come together to read, learn, and -most importantly- to be kids.

With patience and joy: the vision of an English teacher in Andong

English lessons are an important part of the education programs supported by DARA Europe. They provide a valuable addition to Cambodia’s public primary education, where English is often only briefly covered. Many parents who can afford it choose private schools to give their children extra learning opportunities. More and more people see English as a key to better education and a hopeful future.

DARA Europe is committed to making those same opportunities accessible to all children—regardless of their background. That’s why we support SCCO, our local partner organization, in offering English lessons in Andong.
We spoke with Kuntheak, a dedicated and enthusiastic English teacher at SCCO, about her daily lessons, the challenges, and the rewards of her work.

From care to independence: Sokun’s impact as a social worker

Sokun has been a dedicated social worker at SCCO, the partner organization of DARA Europe, for many years. She began her career at the former children’s center in the city, where she played a crucial role in reintegrating children into their (foster) families or preparing them for independent living.
With her dedication, patience, and perseverance, she has made a difference in the lives of many. Today, she continues to support these (now) young adults and plays an important role within the team in Andong. In an interview, Sokun shares her experiences, challenges, and the impact of her work.

Reading joy from an early age

There’s nothing quite like the joy of being read to. In the preschool classes of SCCO in Cambodia, reading aloud plays a key role in the development of young children. It’s more than just a moment of relaxation – it stimulates language skills, imagination, and curiosity. We spoke with Davy, a teacher in SCCO’s preschool, who shared her experiences and vision on the importance of reading aloud for young children.

A new future through a small loan

Thanks to the support of DARA Europe, SCCO provides microloans to people who want to build a better future. With a microloan, parents in Andong can start or expand their own businesses. Allowing them to earn enough income to support themselves and their families while working towards a stable future.