GVI, Ethical Impact: Volunteer in Cambodia

I spent 2 weeks teaching English in Siem Reap and it was the most incredible experience that I will never forget.

The GVI staff were extremely welcoming, supportive and completely professional. Helena, Theary and Lon are the most wonderful people and have set an inclusive, positive and comfortable environment for everyone. They were also able to cater for a flexible schedule, depending on my interests and my energy levels.

The accommodation at the Secret Garden was outstanding, it really felt like home. The restaurant meals were of a very high quality and the level of service from all hotel staff was exceptional. The setting with its large pool and gardens feels like a sanctuary in the city.

The teaching component was immensely enjoyable, giving me the opportunity to meet Buddhist monks and students of all ages.

The locations for teaching were varied which gave me an insight into both community classes based at a Buddhist pagoda and a rural government school.

The only feedback I can offer as something to consider would be:
1. Offer feedback during the programme to reinforce if we are doing well or provide any tips - as most of us are not teachers and are learning on the spot
2. Provide training prior to starting - ie the types of teaching tools available such as various games, quizzes etc, and an indication of what the teaching topics will include (ie telling the time, frequency words etc). This would allow for some preparation prior to attending classes.

I had such an amazing experience in Cambodia. It’s not only just the amazing sights to see and the history in Siem Reap, but it’s the people who made it what it was. Getting to know the GVI staff members and always having their support, along with the teachers and students that welcome you with open arms. I came hoping to make a small impact, but instead, I was the one who was inspired by all of the people who were involved in my trip. It was so great to share my trip with the most amazing people.

GVI Siem Reap is a great location for anyone looking for meaningful volunteering projects in a beautiful city
The programmes are well run and there is an enormous amount of support for volunteers. I would definitely recommend it for older or younger volunteers alike. There was a great team spirit on base and the accommodation in The Secret Garden Hotel was stunning. Certainly the best I have ever stayed in and this was my 14th volunteering project! I think what really makes this experience so wonderful though is the beautiful Cambodian people. They have been through so much but are utterly charming, kind, warm and so grateful to those who have come to help them. Their appetite for knowledge and self improvement was inspirational and they really did melt my heart. All in all totally worthwhile and unique experience.

If you’re considering volunteering in Cambodia at all, my advice would be to go for it!

I was fortunate enough to have some free time between finishing university and starting on the next chapter of my life. I’d never been on a long haul flight or outside of Europe before and even after signing up to the Cambodia program, the idea of doing it all by myself was definitely quite daunting. However, from the moment I stepped foot in Siem Reap I was greeted with a smile and I never looked back.

The GVI Cambodia team are exceptional and made settling into the base so easy. Within only a few days, we were one big family of volunteers. I only stayed for a month, but I made some of my favourite memories in Siem Reap and hope to remember them forever. The GVI base was very comfortable and had everything you could need (including a swimming pool which is a huge bonus in the heat).

Teaching at the primary school and the community classes was also an amazing and refreshing experience. The children were so keen to learn and after only a month there, you could start to see a real difference in their English skills. The GVI Cambodia team work hard to ensure their relationships with partner organisations are sustainable and this was evident throughout my time there.

So, do it. Book the trip! I can’t recommend GVI Cambodia enough.

My experience with GVI was great! My program was very well organised and the staff were so friendly and helpful. I was able to engage in very rewarding work and I felt like I was really making a difference. I had the opportunity to meet some great people. I would definitely use GVI again and I highly recommend them!
The location of my program was great, as I was able to spend my free time exploring the city with other volunteers. (eg, going to the circus, visiting an elephant sanctuary, seeing a lotus farm)

I recently volunteered with GVI in Cambodia, Siem Reap. I focused on women’s empowerment and I worked with Banteay Srei, a Cambodian NGO supporting women. I can’t even begin to describe how amazing this experience was. From emerging yourself in a different culture and lifestyle, to constantly being challenged intellectually, to working with the greatest and most inspiring group of people, to getting to know the amazing, kind, and friendly Cambodian community, to having the best laughs with the other volunteers and the program coordinators. This experience made me want to keep travelling all over the world, volunteering, and helping women. It was truly eye-opening. I would advise anyone to get on this program without a doubt. :))

I have been wanting to volunteer for years. I did some research into what different agencies offered and GVI came out on top. I went to Cambodia for 2 weeks to teach English and work with an NGO supporting women! By the end of the first week, I was trying to rearrange flights to stay. The group I volunteered with was amazing, Pat the project coordinator was supportive, inspiring and down to earth, and the Khmer people were beautiful. The base GVI has in Cambodia felt like home and I would go back tomorrow if I could. The need is immense in Cambodia and the local community welcomes support and help with open arms. The teachers love having English speaking volunteers just as much as the students and you witness your impact almost instantly. Your contribution, opinions, and time is valued and greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend and encourage people of any age to participate in an opportunity and experience like this. It changes your perspective about what’s really important and opens your eyes to real world issues, and how each of us can really make a difference. I am committed to continuing to bring hope and support to those that need it.

This trip has provided me with so much. It has broadened my perspective on so many aspects of teamwork, creativity, and leadership. I ave loved being her in Cambodia and have felt so welcomed and accepted by not only GVI staff, but the community members as well.I have loved teaching English to such amazing and unique students. The best part of my trip has been developing friendships with so many people involved on my program.I would recommend this program to anyone who is looking for an experience to teach and help a local community of amazing people.