I joined TGC in 2017, and it was a life-changing opportunity for me. My name is Mao Sreymom. I’m from a low-income family in Siem Reap province, and I’m the only child in my family who has had the chance to study all the way to university. My parents were both farmers and vegetable sellers. Before joining TGC, I studied at Khna Chas Primary School from first to second grade, but due to my family’s financial struggles, I decided to drop out for two years. My mom didn’t want me to, but I couldn’t stand seeing her struggle alone.
During that time, I worked as a vegetable seller. I picked water spinach, morning glory, sleuk bas (bas leaves), and other green leafy vegetables. I gathered them from ponds, walls, and even forests to sell and earn a little money. I also worked as a waste picker, collecting recyclable materials to sell. On top of that, I caught snails and crabs from lakes to sell as well. I literally did everything I could just to earn around $0.75 to $1.25 a day.
After two years, my mum enrolled me back in school this time in first grade again at Chreav Primary School. Even after returning to school, I continued picking vegetables and collecting waste to sell, but not as much as before. In grade 4, I applied to join TGC. Before that, I had no idea how important education was. I didn’t know what my goals were or what I wanted to do in life. I was surrounded by uneducated people and had no clear direction.
Thankfully, in 2017, I was given a life-changing opportunity to study at TGC. That moment changed everything. I began to discover who I truly am, what I want to become, and most importantly, the value of education. TGC gave me incredible opportunities, such as volunteering to plant trees, clean the environment, and mentor students in underprivileged schools that lacked resources. Through those experiences, I discovered my love for teaching and helping others. More than just academics, TGC gave me a warm and supportive community of teachers, classmates, and staff who always believed in me and encouraged me to grow.
Studying at TGC, I didn’t just gain academic knowledge; I also developed valuable life skills. I had the chance to learn things that many other schools might not offer, such as Khmer traditional dance (Robam Khmer), music, karate, art, painting, and even home affairs. Beyond the classroom, I also learned a lot from the teachers and staff, not just through what they taught, but through their character and example. From them, I learned how to be punctual, responsible, disciplined, focused, and to love and care for the people around me. TGC shaped not only my education but also who I am as a person. I’m truly grateful for everything I’ve learned there, it has prepared me not just for school but for life.
I graduated from TGC in 2024, but their support didn’t end there. When I moved to Phnom Penh for university, I was overwhelmed and uncertain about how to apply for scholarships and how to manage financially. But once again, TGC stood by me. With their help, I passed the IFL entrance exam and received a scholarship thanks to my generous sponsors, Jilly and Gerry. I’m also deeply grateful to Teacher Dara, the principal of TGC, for his constant support and guidance throughout my journey.
Now, I’m a freshman at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, majoring in English at the Institute of Foreign Languages (IFL). TGC empowered me to transform my life. They gave me not just education, but the confidence, direction, and skills to pursue my dreams. I will forever be thankful to the teachers, staff, friends, and sponsors at TGC for their unwavering support. Their dedication has made a lasting impact on my life, and I will always cherish their role in shaping my future. TGC transforms lives, empowers dreams, and nurtures the power of education.
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