Lani Warsh

Lani Warsh arrived in Phnom Penh in January 2010. She took on an Intern role with AP for four months. As the first in this role she did a fantastic job at implementing our Community Outreach program and building strong relationships with the families of AP residents. She started some great networking with other organisations and NGO's to interlink with AP and our families. She also opened up the worlds of our intermediate students in English class by teaching them about different people and cultures around the world. Lani was a caring and dedicated volunteer who worked at AP with energy and enthusiasm to make things the best they could be, and who could always be spotted zooming around Phnom Penh on her bright red 'pizza-delivering' bicycle!





How did you find Aziza’s Place?
I learned about Aziza’s while searching www.idealist.org

What brings you here? What is your motivation to come?
I was looking for experience with a small grassroots NGO in Asia, and Aziza’s Place was a perfect match!

What are you doing or did you do at AP?
During my time at AP I was the first ‘Program Assistant Intern’. I taught a 1-hour English class to 11 AP residents daily. I also initiated the AP Family Outreach Program to the relatives of AP residents who are currently living in Steung Meanchey.

What preconceived ideas of Cambodia did you have before that have been changed since being here?
I didn’t know much, but I didn’t know it was so hot!!! I’ve learned a lot about humidity…

What advice would you give to new volunteers?
Give yourself some time to settle in and get to know the kids. At the beginning, there are so many new names, faces, and routines to familiarize yourself with and it can all be overwhelming. However, after a few weeks you really start to settle into the day-to-day routine of AP and that’s when the fun can really start and your days become extremely rewarding.

About you:
What did you do before coming to AP?
I was working as a canoe trip guide in northern Ontario, Canada.

What are your plans for after AP?
Going back to Canada to do the same thing!

What’s your favorite memory at AP?
I really love Family Nights at Aziza’s Place. It’s so great to see the kids get excited to have their families visit, and beyond adorable watching them practice their performances (whether its karate, dance, or whatever!) beforehand. I think my favorite was when Chiev and Cheng rocked out like super stars in front of everyone when Amjad was visiting! That was totally wicked, and absolutely hilarious!